Importin subunit alpha-3 (KPNA4)

Importin subunit alpha-3 (KPNA4) is a cytoplasmic adapter protein that plays a critical role in nuclear protein import by binding to nuclear localization signals (NLS) on cargo proteins and facilitating their translocation into the nucleus via the nuclear pore complex, in association with nuclear receptor KPNB1. It recognizes both classical and non-classical NLS motifs and is essential for regulating the directionality and specificity of nuclear import through its interaction with the Ran GTPase system. KPNA4 is highly expressed in specific tissues such as testis, ovary, small intestine, heart, skeletal muscle, lung, and pancreas, and has been linked to diseases including type 2 diabetes, infertility, certain congenital syndromes, cataracts, and infection dynamics due to its ability to import viral proteins into the nucleus[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Karyopherin subunit alpha-4Importin alpha-3IPOA3QIP1SRP3Importin alpha Q1MGC12217MGC26703