Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) (FABP4)

Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4), also known as adipocyte protein 2 (aP2), is a 15 kDa cytosolic protein predominantly expressed in adipocytes and macrophages (UniProt P15090). It functions as an intracellular lipid chaperone, facilitating the transport of long-chain fatty acids to various organelles for metabolism, signaling, or storage (PMID: 25732502). Beyond its role in lipid trafficking, FABP4 is a key regulator of metabolic and inflammatory pathways, interacting with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and modulating cytokine production (PMID: 36640194). Elevated circulating levels of FABP4 are strongly correlated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis, making it a significant biomarker and therapeutic target (PMID: 25732502). Therapeutic strategies include small molecule inhibitors that block the fatty acid-binding pocket and RNA-targeted approaches, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or siRNA, designed to degrade FABP4 mRNA and reduce protein expression (PMID: 26606130). Targeting FABP4 mRNA specifically aims to lower the total protein pool, thereby improving glucose tolerance and reducing vascular inflammation.

Other names

Adipocyte protein 2aP2Adipocyte-type fatty acid-binding proteinA-FABPALBP

Degradation of FABP4 mRNA via antisense oligonucleotides or siRNA to reduce protein expression, or competitive inhibition of the protein's lipid-binding pocket.