TM4SF4: Proteins and Enzymes

TM4SF4 is a member of the transmembrane 4 superfamily, also known as the tetraspanin family. Most of these members are cell-surface proteins that are characterized by the presence of four hydrophobic domains. The proteins mediate signal transduction events that play a role in the regulation of cell development, activation, growth and motility. TM4SF4 is a cell surface glycoprotein that regulates the adhesive and proliferative status of intestinal epithelial cells. TM4SF4 and matrix metalloproteinase 26 (MMP-26) expression has been found to be significantly decreased during the implantation window in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.