CLIC4 (Chloride Intracellular Channel 4) is a member of the CLIC family of proteins, which exhibit dual roles as both soluble cytoplasmic proteins and integral membrane ion channels. Initially identified for its ability to regulate chloride ion transport, CLIC4 is implicated in diverse cellular processes, including apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, differentiation, and response to oxidative stress. Its function is closely tied to cellular localization: under physiological conditions, CLIC4 resides in the cytoplasm or nucleus, but during stress or apoptosis, it translocates to the mitochondria, plasma membrane, or other organelles to modulate ion flux and signaling pathways. CLIC4 interacts with key proteins such as actin, tubulin, and components of the TGF-β and p53 pathways, highlighting its role in maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Antibodies targeting CLIC4 are critical tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in both normal and pathological contexts. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to investigate CLIC4's involvement in diseases such as cancer, fibrosis, and neurodegenerative disorders. For example, CLIC4 is upregulated in certain tumors, where it may promote invasiveness or resistance to therapy, while in other contexts, it acts as a tumor suppressor. Researchers also utilize CLIC4 antibodies to explore its role in autophagy, angiogenesis, and cellular responses to hypoxia or DNA damage. Despite its well-characterized functions, CLIC4's mechanistic contributions remain context-dependent, necessitating precise experimental validation using specific antibodies to avoid cross-reactivity with other CLIC family members.