DENND4C Activators

DENND4C, or "DENN Domain Containing 4C," is a protein encoded by the DENND4C gene in humans. It belongs to the DENN (Differentially Expressed in Normal and Neoplastic Cells) domain-containing family of proteins, which are known for their involvement in various cellular processes, particularly those related to membrane trafficking and signal transduction.

The DENND4C protein functions as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF). GEFs are crucial in cell signaling; they activate small GTPases by facilitating the exchange of GDP for GTP. Specifically, DENND4C activates members of the Rab family of GTPases, which are key regulators of vesicle trafficking in cells. This role in vesicle formation and transport is vital for numerous cellular functions, including endocytosis, exocytosis, and intracellular signaling. The expression of DENND4C has been studied in various tissues, suggesting its importance in multiple physiological processes. Dysregulation of DENND4C expression or function has been linked to certain pathological conditions, although the full extent of its involvement in disease is still under research. For example, aberrations in DENND4C have been implicated in some forms of cancer, where it may influence tumor growth and progression through its impact on cellular signaling pathways.