Somatostatin receptor 4

Somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SSTR4 gene. It is one of the five somatostatin receptors, which are a part of the G protein-coupled receptor family.

Function[edit | edit source]

The SSTR4 protein is a receptor for somatostatin, a hormone that regulates the endocrine system and affects neurotransmission and cell proliferation via interaction with G protein-coupled somatostatin receptors. This receptor has an intronless gene and is expressed in highest levels in fetal and adult brain and lung.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in function of this receptor caused by mutations have been associated with neuroendocrine tumors. Moreover, somatostatin receptor 4 has been reported to be overexpressed in a number of cancer types, including breast cancer and prostate cancer, suggesting a potential role in cancer biology.

Ligands[edit | edit source]

Several ligands, both natural and synthetic, have been identified for SSTR4. These include the natural ligand somatostatin, as well as several synthetic analogs. These ligands can be used in the treatment of various diseases, including acromegaly, Cushing's disease, and certain types of cancer.