Glycine receptor alpha 4 (GLRA4)

The **glycine receptor alpha 4** (GLRA4) gene is a member of the Cys-loop ligand-gated ion channel receptor family. In humans, GLRA4 is classified as a pseudogene, as the encoded protein carries multiple inactivating mutations and lacks a functional fourth transmembrane region, meaning it does not produce an active glycine receptor subunit. Therefore, GLRA4 does not form functional receptors or participate in inhibitory neurotransmission in human physiology[1][2][3][4][5]. In other vertebrates (such as rodents and zebrafish), the glycine receptor alpha 4 subunit is expressed and contributes to synaptic inhibition, particularly in mediating startle and escape responses[1]. Summary of issues: GLRA4 is frequently mischaracterized as a standard glycine receptor subunit target in humans, but all evidence from molecular, genetic, and electrophysiological studies demonstrate that the human gene is nonfunctional (pseudogene)[1][2][3][4][5]. For target-based drug design or biomarker purposes, GLRA4 should not be considered, unless referring to non-human species.

Other names

glycine receptor alpha 4GLRA4glycine receptor alpha 4 (pseudogene)

not a drug target; see above