Membrane-spanning 4-domains subfamily A member 14 (MS4A14)

Membrane-spanning 4-domains subfamily A member 14 (MS4A14) is a tetraspanin-like, multi-pass transmembrane protein encoded by the *MS4A14* gene, which is part of the broader MS4A family that includes functionally divergent membrane proteins such as CD20 (MS4A1) and FcεRIβ (MS4A2)[1][3]. MS4A14 is predominantly expressed in testis, with lower levels found in several other tissues and immune cell subsets, including monocytes and macrophages, where its RNA expression decreases during monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation[1]. While its precise biological function remains unclear, it is predicted—based on homology and structural features—to participate in cell surface signaling complexes, possibly as a regulatory or scaffolding component[3]. There is currently no evidence that MS4A14 serves as a clinical drug target, and no drugs or selective ligands are known. Genetic association data suggest weak links to some diseases (e.g., superficial keratitis), but the significance and mechanism remain undetermined[3]. Overall, MS4A14 is a poorly characterized membrane protein whose potential physiological and pathological roles require further study[1][3].

Other names

Membrane spanning 4-domains A14MS4A16DKFZp434H092FLJ32856NYD-SP21Testis development protein NYD-SP21membrane-spanning 4-domains, subfamily A, member 16