Target intelligence / Profile preview

Kinesin light chain 4 (KLC4)

Target
KLC4
Molecular classification
Motor protein subunit, Kinesin family protein, Microtubule-associated protein, Other
01

Overview

Kinesin light chain 4 (KLC4) is a subunit of the kinesin-1 motor protein complex and plays a critical role in microtubule-based transport within cells. KLC4 functions as a cargo adaptor, specifying which cellular cargoes are transported by the kinesin-1 motor along microtubules, particularly in neurons. It is essential for the development of proper neuronal morphology, axon branching, and compartmentalization, as well as for behaviors associated with sensory response and stress in model organisms. Mutations in KLC4 have been linked to a spectrum of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, such as hereditary spastic paraplegia, retinitis pigmentosa, sensorineural hearing loss, and demyelinating neuropathy. While not recognized as a classic drug target or receptor, research compounds such as Kinesore can modulate KLC4 function to explore its cellular roles[1][2][3][4].

Other names
KLC4KNSL8KLC 4bA387M24.3kinesin-like protein 8CONDRHN
02

Mechanism of action

Disrupts KLC-cargo adaptor interactions and modulates kinesin-mediated microtubule dynamics[2]

03

Biological functions

Intracellular transportRegulation of microtubule dynamicsAxon branching and arborizationVesicular/endosomal transportNeural development and morphogenesisOther
04

Disease associations

Neurodegenerative diseaseHereditary spastic paraplegiaRetinitis pigmentosa (in syndromic form)Sensorineural hearing lossDemyelinating peripheral neuropathy
05

Safety considerations

No direct evidence of safety concerns as a therapeutic target; potential risks could relate to disrupting essential neuronal transport, leading to neurotoxicity or neuropathy in experimental models[1][2]
06

Interacting drugs

Kinesore (research tool compound shown to affect kinesin light chain-cargo interactions)[2]

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