FABP4
GeneName
FABP4
Summary
FABP4, also known as AP-2 or fatty acid binding protein 4, is a 15 kDa intracellular protein that is primarily expressed in adipose tissue and macrophages. It is involved in the transport and binding of long-chain fatty acids, facilitating their uptake and metabolism. FABP4 is localised in various cellular compartments, including the cytoplasm, nucleus, and lipid droplets, and plays a role in processes such as brown and white fat cell differentiation, cholesterol homeostasis, and the cellular response to inflammatory stimuli. Additionally, it has been implicated in the regulation of gene expression through its interactions with hormone receptors and involvement in DNA-templated transcription processes.
Importance
FABP4 is relevant to: - Metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes, due to its role in fatty acid transport and storage - Inflammatory responses, as it modulates the activity of macrophages and influences the inflammatory milieu - Cardiovascular diseases, given its involvement in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis - Cancer biology, particularly in the context of tumour metabolism and the tumour microenvironment
Top Products
For researchers investigating FABP4, we highly recommend the top-selling recombinant antibody, Anti-FABP4 antibody [EPR3579] (ab92501). This well-cited antibody has garnered 137 citations, reflecting its strong reputation in the field. It has been validated for use in several applications, including Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunocytochemistry (ICC), making it a versatile choice for reliable FABP4 detection. The recombinant nature of this antibody ensures batch-to-batch consistency, which is essential for reproducible results in your experiments. The Human FABP4 ELISA Kit (ab234565) is a reliable option for researchers looking to measure FABP4 levels in their samples.
Abcam Product Citation Summary
The data indicates that FABP4 is a significant target in studies related to adipocyte biology, particularly in the context of adipogenic differentiation, lipolysis, and adipogenic phenotype. The use of various Abcam antibodies in both mouse and human models highlights the relevance of FABP4 in metabolic studies and its potential implications in obesity and related disorders.
Abcam Product Citation Table
Domain
Forms a beta-barrel structure that accommodates hydrophobic ligands in its interior.
Function
Lipid transport protein in adipocytes. Binds both long chain fatty acids and retinoic acid. Delivers long-chain fatty acids and retinoic acid to their cognate receptors in the nucleus.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the calycin superfamily. Fatty-acid binding protein (FABP) family.
Cellular localization
- Cytoplasm
- Nucleus
- Depending on the nature of the ligand, a conformation change exposes a nuclear localization motif and the protein is transported into the nucleus. Subject to constitutive nuclear export.
Alternative names
Adipocyte lipid-binding protein, Adipocyte-type fatty acid-binding protein, Fatty acid-binding protein 4, ALBP, A-FABP, AFABP, FABP4