Fatty Acid Binding Protein 4 (FABP4), also known as adipocyte-fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP), is a member of the fatty acid-binding protein family. These proteins play a crucial role in the intracellular transport of fatty acids and other lipophilic substances. FABP4 is predominantly expressed in adipocytes and macrophages, where it is involved in various metabolic and inflammatory processes.
FABP4 is a small, cytoplasmic protein that binds long-chain fatty acids and other hydrophobic ligands. The protein’s structure consists of a beta-barrel that forms a binding pocket for fatty acids. This binding facilitates the transport of fatty acids within cells, aiding in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis .
FABP4 is a key player in lipid metabolism. It regulates the storage and release of fatty acids in adipocytes and is involved in the development of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Elevated levels of FABP4 are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases . In obese mice, deletion of FABP4 has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolic disorders .
Due to its involvement in metabolic and inflammatory pathways, FABP4 is considered a potential biomarker for various diseases. Elevated serum levels of FABP4 have been linked to metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cardiovascular diseases . Additionally, FABP4 is being explored as a therapeutic target for these conditions, with the aim of developing treatments that modulate its activity to improve metabolic health .
Human recombinant FABP4 is a laboratory-produced version of the protein, created using recombinant DNA technology. This allows for the production of large quantities of pure FABP4 for research and therapeutic purposes. Recombinant FABP4 is used in various studies to understand its function and role in disease, as well as in the development of potential therapeutic interventions .