Family with sequence similarity 19 member A4, C-C motif chemokine like

Family with sequence similarity 19 member A4, C-C motif chemokine like (FAM19A4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FAM19A4 gene. This protein is a member of the TAFA family, which is a group of small secreted proteins. The FAM19A4 protein is predominantly expressed in the brain and may play a role in neuronal development and function.

Function[edit | edit source]

The FAM19A4 protein is a member of the TAFA family, which consists of five highly homologous genes that encode small secreted proteins. These proteins contain conserved cysteine residues at fixed positions, and are distantly related to MIP-1 alpha, a member of the CC-chemokine family. The TAFA proteins are predominantly expressed in specific regions of the brain, and are postulated to function as brain-specific chemokines or neurokines, that act as regulators of immune and nervous cells.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Studies have shown that FAM19A4 methylation testing in combination with HPV testing can be used as a triage test for women who test positive for HPV. This can help to identify women at risk of cervical cancer and guide appropriate follow-up actions.