FUT4

FUT4 or Fucosyltransferase 4 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the FUT4 gene. This enzyme belongs to the family of glycosyltransferases, specifically the hexosyltransferases. The systematic name of this enzyme class is GDP-L-fucose:beta-D-galactoside 2-alpha-L-fucosyltransferase. Other names in common use include alpha(1,3)fucosyltransferase, and alpha(1,3)FucT.

Function

FUT4 is one of several alpha-1,3-fucosyltransferases that can catalyze the last step in the biosynthesis of Lewis antigen, the addition of a fucose to precursor polysaccharides. This enzyme is a type II membrane protein and carries out the transfer of fucose from GDP-fucose to Gal-beta-1,4-GlcNAc-R. The enzyme's action can result in the synthesis of the Lewis X (LeX) and Lewis Y (LeY) blood group antigens.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of FUT4 have been associated with certain pathologies. For instance, increased expression of FUT4 has been observed in certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and colorectal cancer. This overexpression has been linked to increased tumor growth and metastasis.

See also

• Fucosyltransferase
• Lewis antigen

External links

• FUT4 at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)