Specificity protein 4 (Sp4)

Specificity protein 4 (Sp4) is a zinc finger transcription factor encoded by the SP4 gene and is a member of the Sp/Krüppel-like factor family[6][4]. Sp4 binds GC-rich promoter elements and acts primarily as a transcriptional activator, regulating the expression of many genes, including those for excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors such as NMDA and GABAA subunits, and genes involved in neuronal energy metabolism[1][8]. Sp4 is highly expressed in neurons and plays key roles in neurodevelopment, as well as coupling energy metabolism with neuronal activity[1]. In cancer, Sp4 is frequently overexpressed alongside Sp1 and Sp3, functioning as a non-oncogene addiction gene that regulates cell proliferation, survival, and migration, marking it as a promising target for cancer therapy[2][3][4]. Genetic variation in SP4 is associated with increased susceptibility to psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia[5], and its dysregulation may also influence neurodegenerative diseases[5].

Other names

SP4HF1BSPR-1Sp4 transcription factor

Inhibition of transcriptional activity, Downregulation of pro-oncogenic gene expression