Hippocalcin like 4 (HPCAL4)

Hippocalcin like 4 (HPCAL4) is a neuronal calcium-binding protein in the EF-hand calcium sensor protein family, closely related to human hippocalcin and hippocalcin-like 1 proteins[2][3]. HPCAL4 is highly expressed in certain neuronal populations, plays a role in modulating intracellular calcium and possibly lipid signaling, and may be involved in the calcium-dependent regulation of rhodopsin phosphorylation[2][3]. It also interacts with lipid signaling molecules (as a candidate ceramide-binding protein) and with bacterial effectors, suggesting roles in signaling beyond neurons. While HPCAL4 is not recognized as a direct therapeutic target or receptor, it is a potential biomarker in certain cancers and stress conditions due to changes in its expression[2][3]. There is no current evidence for drugs directly targeting HPCAL4 or for established mechanisms of pharmacological action or safety concerns in the context of direct targeting[2][3].

Other names

HPCAL4Hippocalcin-like protein 4visinin-like protein 4VILIP-4