SULT4A1 (sulfotransferase family 4A member 1) is a cytosolic enzyme belonging to the sulfotransferase family, which catalyzes the transfer of sulfate groups to various substrates, including hormones, neurotransmitters, and xenobiotics. Unlike other sulfotransferases, SULT4A1 exhibits unique structural features and substrate specificity, though its exact physiological role remains incompletely understood. It is predominantly expressed in the brain, particularly in neurons, suggesting potential involvement in neurosteroid metabolism or neurotransmitter regulation.
Antibodies targeting SULT4A1 are critical tools for studying its expression, localization, and function. They enable researchers to detect the protein in tissues (e.g., via Western blotting or immunohistochemistry) and explore its distribution across brain regions. Studies using SULT4A1 antibodies have linked the enzyme to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative processes, with altered expression observed in conditions like schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, and certain cancers. However, its endogenous substrates and precise mechanisms in these contexts are still under investigation.
SULT4A1 antibodies also aid in differentiating it from other sulfotransferases (e.g., SULT1A1 or SULT2A1) due to low sequence homology. Challenges include ensuring antibody specificity, as cross-reactivity with unrelated proteins has been reported. Ongoing research focuses on clarifying SULT4A1's role in drug metabolism, hormone homeostasis, and disease pathways, with its antibody serving as a cornerstone for both basic and translational studies.