Somatostatin receptor type 4 (SSTR4) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds somatostatin, a neuropeptide regulating hormone secretion, cell proliferation, and neurotransmission. SSTR4. one of five receptor subtypes (SSTR1-5), is primarily expressed in the central nervous system, pituitary gland, and peripheral tissues, modulating cAMP pathways and ion channel activity. Its role in physiological processes—such as pain perception, cognitive function, and inflammatory responses—has drawn interest in neurological and endocrine research.
SSTR4-specific antibodies are critical tools for studying receptor localization, expression levels, and signaling mechanisms in both normal and pathological states. These antibodies enable techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and flow cytometry. Research highlights SSTR4's potential involvement in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's), epilepsy, and neuroendocrine tumors, where receptor dysregulation may contribute to disease progression. Additionally, SSTR4-targeted therapies, including peptide-drug conjugates or radiolabeled ligands, are under exploration, necessitating precise antibody validation to ensure specificity and minimize cross-reactivity with other SSTR subtypes. Recent advances in antibody engineering, such as monoclonal or recombinant formats, have improved detection sensitivity, supporting translational studies aiming to exploit SSTR4 as a biomarker or therapeutic target.