The NRG4 (Neuregulin-4) antibody is a research tool designed to detect and study the Neuregulin-4 protein, a member of the neuregulin family of growth factors. NRG4 is part of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) superfamily and binds primarily to the ErbB3/ErbB4 receptor tyrosine kinases, activating downstream signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Structurally, it contains an EGF-like domain critical for receptor interaction.
NRG4 is predominantly expressed in metabolic tissues, including adipose tissue, the pancreas, and the intestine, where it functions as an adipokine regulating glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and energy homeostasis. Studies highlight its role in metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, where reduced NRG4 levels correlate with insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. Conversely, NRG4 overexpression improves metabolic parameters in preclinical models.
In cancer, NRG4 exhibits context-dependent roles—acting as a tumor suppressor in some contexts (e.g., colorectal cancer) while promoting tumorigenesis in others (e.g., breast cancer). NRG4 antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA to quantify protein expression, map tissue distribution, and explore therapeutic potential. Emerging research also investigates recombinant NRG4 or antibody-based therapies for metabolic or oncological applications. Overall, NRG4 antibodies are pivotal in elucidating the protein's dual roles in metabolism and disease.