RBP4
GeneName
RBP4
Summary
RBP4, also known as retinol binding protein 4 or RBP-4, is a 23kDa secreted protein that plays a crucial role in the transport of retinol (vitamin A) from the liver to peripheral tissues. It is primarily found in the extracellular region and is associated with various protein-containing complexes. RBP4 exhibits molecular carrier activity and is involved in retinol binding and transport across membranes. This protein is expressed in multiple tissues and is implicated in several biological processes, including eye development, cardiac muscle tissue development, and glucose homeostasis, as well as the regulation of insulin secretion and immunoglobulin production.
Importance
RBP4 is relevant to: - Metabolic disorders, particularly in the context of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, due to its role in glucose homeostasis and insulin secretion regulation. - Eye health and visual perception through its involvement in retinal binding and phototransduction. - Developmental biology, as it is essential for various embryonic processes including heart, lung, and skeletal system development. - The transport and metabolism of vitamin A, which is vital for numerous physiological functions and developmental processes.
Top Products
For researchers investigating RBP4, we highly recommend the top-selling recombinant antibody, Anti-RBP4 antibody [EP3657] (ab109193). This antibody has been validated for use in Western blotting (WB) and immunocytochemistry (ICC), making it a versatile tool for various experimental needs. With 16 citations, it demonstrates a solid reputation within the research community, reflecting its reliability and effectiveness in detecting RBP4. This recombinant antibody ensures batch-to-batch consistency, providing researchers with confidence in their results. The Mouse Retinol Binding Protein 4 ELISA Kit (ab202404), supported by 5 citations, is an excellent option for researchers looking to accurately measure RBP4 levels in their samples.
Abcam Product Citation Summary
The data indicates that RBP4 is being investigated in the context of ovarian cancer, with studies focusing on both rat models and human ovarian cancer cells. The use of western blotting suggests a detailed analysis of RBP4 expression in these cancer contexts.
Abcam Product Citation Table
Function
Retinol-binding protein that mediates retinol transport in blood plasma (PubMed:5541771). Delivers retinol from the liver stores to the peripheral tissues (Probable). Transfers the bound all-trans retinol to STRA6, that then facilitates retinol transport across the cell membrane (PubMed:22665496).
Involvement in disease
Retinal dystrophy, iris coloboma, and comedogenic acne syndrome
RDCCAS
A disease characterized by retinal degeneration, ocular colobomas involving both the anterior and posterior segment, impaired night vision and loss of visual acuity. Additional characteristic features include developmental abnormalities and severe acne.
None
The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. Loss of functional RBP4 protein results in serum retinol deficiency. Lack of normal levels of retinol impairs the visual cycle leading to night blindness at early stages; prolonged deficiency may lead to retinal degeneration. Additionally, retinol deficiency may result in dry skin, increased susceptibility to infection and acne (PubMed:23189188).
Microphthalmia/Coloboma 10
MCOPCB10
A disorder of eye formation, ranging from small size of a single eye to complete bilateral absence of ocular tissues. Ocular abnormalities like opacities of the cornea and lens, scaring of the retina and choroid, and other abnormalities may also be present. Ocular colobomas are a set of malformations resulting from abnormal morphogenesis of the optic cup and stalk, and the fusion of the fetal fissure (optic fissure).
None
The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the calycin superfamily. Lipocalin family.
Tissue Specificity
Detected in blood plasma and in urine (at protein level).
Cellular localization
- Secreted
Alternative names
PRO2222, RBP4, Retinol-binding protein 4, Plasma retinol-binding protein, PRBP, RBP