Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 Alpha (HNF4α)

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) is a nuclear receptor and transcription factor that acts as a master regulator of liver-specific gene expression and is essential for both adult and fetal liver function. It also controls genes critical for pancreatic beta cell development and insulin secretion. Mutations or dysregulation of HNF4A are linked to several diseases, including maturity-onset diabetes of the young type 1 (MODY1), ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Other names

NR2A1Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 2, Group A, Member 1TCF14MODY1

Regulates downstream targets such as hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha (another key hepatic transcription factor). Required for activation of cytochrome P450 enzymes like CYP3A4 via interaction with other nuclear receptors such as PXR/CAR. Influences synthesis/expression of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), affecting insulin resistance/sex hormone levels.