Neuroligin 4, X-linked (NLGN4X)

Neuroligin 4, X-linked (NLGN4X), often referred to as NGn4 in specific therapeutic contexts, is a type I membrane protein and cell adhesion molecule primarily known for its role in the central nervous system. It belongs to the neuroligin family and functions by interacting with neurexins to facilitate the formation and maintenance of synapses. Beyond its neurological role, NLGN4X has been identified as a modulator of Natural Killer (NK) cell activity in the context of chronic liver diseases. Specifically, its expression on NK cells is thought to inhibit their anti-fibrotic potential by modulating their interaction with activated hepatic stellate cells. Therapeutic strategies, such as the drug candidate BL-1210, have aimed to inhibit NLGN4X expression or its interaction with neurexin 1-beta to stimulate NK cell-mediated clearance of fibrotic tissue, thereby treating conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis. Although mutations in NLGN4X are strongly associated with autism spectrum disorders, its role as a peripheral target for liver disease was explored in preclinical development but faced challenges, leading to the termination of early-stage programs.

Other names

NLGN4NLGn4NGn4Neuroligin-4Neuroligin 4XHNL4X

Inhibition of NLGN4X expression or its interaction with Neurexin 1-beta (NRXN1b) to enhance NK cell anti-fibrotic activity.