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Target intelligence / Profile preview
Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4 (FFAR4)
- Target
- FFAR4
- Molecular classification
- G protein-coupled receptor, GPCR, Class A GPCR, Receptor
01
Overview
Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4 (FFAR4), also known as GPR120, is a G protein-coupled receptor that functions as a nutrient sensor for medium and long-chain fatty acids. It is highly expressed in enteroendocrine cells, pancreatic cells, and adipose tissue, playing a key role in metabolic regulation, insulin sensitization, and anti-inflammatory processes. Activation of FFAR4 by ligands like omega-3 fatty acids promotes insulin sensitivity, stimulates GLP-1 secretion, and attenuates inflammation, making it a therapeutic target for type II diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
- Other names
- GPR120
02
Mechanism of action
Activation of FFAR4 by agonists leads to Gq/11-mediated and β-arrestin‑2-mediated signaling, resulting in various downstream effects such as increased insulin sensitivity, GLP-1 secretion, and anti-inflammatory responses.
03
Biological functions
Metabolic regulationInsulin sensitizationAnti-inflammationNutrient sensorSignal transductionAdipogenesisEnergy homeostasisSecretion of incretin hormone GLP-1
04
Disease associations
Type II diabetes mellitusObesity-related metabolic syndromeCardiovascular diseaseInflammationImmune disorders
05
Safety considerations
Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of FFAR4-targeted therapies.Cell-type specific signaling might lead to unwanted effects on the heart or other tissues.
06
Interacting drugs
α-linolenic acid (ALA)
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