Transforming growth factor beta regulator 4 (TBRG4)

Transforming growth factor beta regulator 4 (TBRG4) is a mitochondrial protein belonging to the FAST kinase domain family that regulates mitochondrial RNA processing, mRNA stability, and cellular respiration[1][4][5]. TBRG4 acts as a tumor-promoting factor in multiple cancers by supporting cell proliferation, survival, and suppressing apoptosis[2][3][5]. It is also critical for maintaining latency of herpesviruses (KSHV, EBV); knockdown of TBRG4 leads to increased reactive oxygen species and induction of viral lytic cycles[1][5]. High expression of TBRG4 correlates with poor prognosis and metastasis in cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma and multiple myeloma[2][3][5]. No approved drugs directly target TBRG4, but its knockdown has demonstrated anti-tumor effects in preclinical models through activation of apoptosis and ferroptosis[2][3][5]. Safety concerns include the risk of mitochondrial dysfunction and viral reactivation if the protein is inhibited or silenced[1][2][3][5].

Other names

CPR2FAST kinase domain-containing protein 4FASTKD4cell cycle progression restoration protein 2cell cycle progression protein 2protein TBRG4KIAA0948H_TD2522F11.8[1][2][5]

Not targeted by approved drugs; experimental knockdown leads to increased apoptosis, ROS accumulation, ferroptosis, and induction of viral lytic reactivation[1][3][5]