Recombinant Human AKAP4 protein (GST tag N-Terminus)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

AKAP4 also known as A Kinase Anchoring Protein 4 or p82 protein is involved in cellular signaling as a scaffolding protein. It plays a mechanical role in organizing protein kinase A (PKA) and other signaling proteins at specific intracellular sites ensuring proper localization and action. AKAP4 has a molecular mass of approximately 82 kilodaltons. Expression of AKAP4 can be found mainly in post-meiotic germ cells especially within the testis highlighting its functional importance in sperm development and maturation.

Biological function summary

AKAP4 plays a critical role in sperm motility and flagellar function. It is a part of the fibrous sheath of the sperm tail contributing to structural integrity and regulation of flagellar activity. As a scaffolding protein it forms complexes with PKA and other enzymes like phosphodiesterases which are important for intracellular calcium signaling and energy metabolism in sperm cells. This positioning helps coordinate the cAMP signaling process necessary for sperm motility and capacitation.

Pathways

AKAP4 significantly influences the cAMP-dependent signaling pathway. This pathway is essential to regulate ATP production and other metabolic activities within the sperm ensuring their energy demands are met during motility and fertilization processes. Another related protein is AKAP3 which collaborates with AKAP4 in organizing these metabolic modules within the sperm fibrous sheath synergizing their structural and functional contributions to sperm physiology.

Mutations or altered expression of AKAP4 impact male fertility contributing to conditions like asthenozoospermia where sperm motility is impaired. Such conditions reduce the likelihood of successful fertilization. AKAP4 also has connections with cancer as abnormal expression patterns have been observed in specific cancer types suggesting a potential role in tumor development and progression. Interactions between AKAP4 and proteins involved in cancer pathways such as AKAP13 may reveal more about its role in the etiology of these diseases.