Gli family zinc finger 4

Gli family zinc finger 4 (GLI4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GLI4 gene. This protein is a member of the GLI family of transcription factors, which are involved in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. The GLI proteins are characterized by their five C2H2 zinc finger domains, which enable them to bind to DNA and regulate the expression of target genes.

Function

GLI4, like other members of the GLI family, functions as a transcription factor. It plays a crucial role in the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is essential for various developmental processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, and tissue patterning. The activity of GLI4 is regulated by the Hedgehog proteins, which modulate its ability to activate or repress target gene expression.

Structure

The GLI4 protein contains five C2H2 zinc finger domains, which are responsible for its DNA-binding capability. These domains allow GLI4 to interact with specific DNA sequences in the promoters of target genes, thereby influencing their transcription.

Clinical Significance

Mutations or dysregulation of the GLI4 gene can lead to various developmental disorders and diseases. Abnormal GLI4 activity has been implicated in certain types of cancer, where it can contribute to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation.

Related Proteins

GLI4 is one of several GLI proteins, including GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3. Each of these proteins has distinct but overlapping roles in the Hedgehog signaling pathway and can compensate for each other to some extent.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms by which GLI4 and other GLI proteins regulate gene expression and contribute to development and disease. This includes studies on their interactions with other proteins and their roles in various signaling pathways.

See Also

• Hedgehog signaling pathway
• GLI family of transcription factors
• C2H2 zinc finger
• GLI1
• GLI2
• GLI3