ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 4 (ABCG4)

ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 4 (ABCG4) is a member of the ATP-binding cassette transporter superfamily, specifically the White subfamily. It functions as an ATP-dependent transmembrane transporter involved primarily in the efflux of sterols (particularly cholesterol and desmosterol) and amyloid-β peptide. ABCG4 is highly expressed in the brain and liver, plays a role in cellular cholesterol homeostasis, and likely contributes to the regulation of amyloid-β levels at the blood-brain barrier. The gene is associated with certain cancers and lipid metabolism disorders and is under investigation as a potential target in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s due to its role in amyloid-β clearance.

Other names

ABCG4WHITE2ATP binding cassette subfamily G member 4ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G, member 4Putative ABC transporter, sub-family G, member 4

Inhibition of transporter activity (e.g., probucol and L-thyroxine bind and block export of sterols and Aβ). Efflux modulation: promotes export of substrates (sterols, Aβ) from cells, including across the blood-brain barrier; inhibition leads to increased substrate retention.