GATA4

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

GATA4 is a gene that encodes a protein known as GATA binding protein 4. This protein is a member of the GATA family of transcription factors, which play a crucial role in cellular development and differentiation. GATA4, in particular, is involved in the development and function of the heart and digestive system.

Function[edit | edit source]

GATA4 is a transcription factor, meaning it binds to specific regions of DNA and regulates the activity of other genes. It is involved in the development of several organs, including the heart and digestive system. In the heart, GATA4 helps regulate the growth and differentiation of cardiac muscle cells. In the digestive system, it is involved in the development of the stomach, liver, and pancreas.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the GATA4 gene have been associated with several congenital heart defects, including atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect. These conditions occur when the wall that separates the heart's left and right sides does not form correctly. GATA4 mutations can also cause tetralogy of Fallot, a complex heart defect that affects blood flow through the heart.

In addition to heart defects, GATA4 mutations have been linked to pancreatic agenesis, a condition in which the pancreas fails to develop. This can lead to diabetes and other health problems.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research on GATA4 is ongoing, with scientists seeking to better understand its role in organ development and disease. Some studies are exploring the potential of using GATA4 to regenerate heart tissue after a heart attack, while others are investigating its role in cancer.

See also[edit | edit source]




Cardiovascular disease A-Z

Most common cardiac diseases

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Health science - Medicine - Gastroenterology - edit
Diseases of the esophagus - stomach
Halitosis | Nausea | Vomiting | GERD | Achalasia | Esophageal cancer | Esophageal varices | Peptic ulcer | Abdominal pain | Stomach cancer | Functional dyspepsia | Gastroparesis
Diseases of the liver - pancreas - gallbladder - biliary tree
Hepatitis | Cirrhosis | NASH | PBC | PSC | Budd-Chiari | Hepatocellular carcinoma | Acute pancreatitis | Chronic pancreatitis | Pancreatic cancer | Gallstones | Cholecystitis
Diseases of the small intestine
Peptic ulcer | Intussusception | Malabsorption (e.g. Coeliac, lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorptionWhipple's) | Lymphoma
Diseases of the colon
Diarrhea | Appendicitis | Diverticulitis | Diverticulosis | IBD (Crohn'sUlcerative colitis) | IBS | Constipation | Colorectal cancer | Hirschsprung's | Pseudomembranous colitis


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD