Chemokine-like protein TAFA-4 (TAFA4)

Chemokine-like protein TAFA-4 (TAFA4) is a member of the TAFA/FAM19A family of small, secreted proteins structurally related to CC-chemokines and expressed primarily in the nervous system, including dorsal root ganglia nociceptors[1][2]. TAFA-4 has key roles in modulating pain sensitivity and is a ligand for the G protein-coupled formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1), mediating chemotaxis and activation of immune cells such as macrophages as well as influencing inflammatory responses[1][3]. It also interacts with neurexins, suggesting a function at neural synapses. Genetic or functional disruption of TAFA4 in animal models affects pain behavior and inflammatory responses, highlighting its role as a potential therapeutic target for neuro-inflammatory disease and pain management[1][2].

Other names

TAFA chemokine like family member 4FAM19A4TAFA-4chemokine-like protein TAFA-4family with sequence similarity 19 member A4C-C motif chemokine likeprotein FAM19A4

Binds to and activates formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1), a G protein-coupled receptor, to modulate macrophage chemoattraction, phagocytosis, and inflammation[1][3].