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Multidrug resistance protein 4 (MRP4/ABCC4): a versatile efflux transporter for drugs and signalling molecules

Frans G M Russel1, Jan B Koenderink, Rosalinde Masereeuw

  • 1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. F.Russel@ncmls.ru.nl <F.Russel@ncmls.ru.nl>

Trends in Pharmacological Sciences
|March 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Multidrug resistance protein (MRP) 4, an ATP-binding cassette transporter, effluxes drugs and signaling molecules. Its unique properties suggest a key role in cellular protection and signaling, offering a potential therapeutic target.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Multidrug resistance protein (MRP) 4 belongs to the MRP/ABCC subfamily of ATP-binding cassette transporters.
  • MRP4 facilitates the cellular efflux of diverse endogenous and xenobiotic organic anionic compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent insights into the transport functions of MRP4.
  • To explore MRP4's potential as a therapeutic target for modulating pathophysiological signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on MRP4.
  • Analysis of MRP4's structure, regulation, and localization.
  • Investigation of MRP4's transport substrates and functions.

Main Results:

  • MRP4 transports a wide range of drugs (antiviral, cytostatic, antibiotic, cardiovascular).
  • MRP4 uniquely transports cellular signaling molecules, including cyclic nucleotides, eicosanoids, urate, and conjugated steroids.
  • MRP4's dual localization and regulation suggest a role in cellular protection and extracellular signaling.

Conclusions:

  • MRP4 possesses a versatile transport function with implications beyond drug efflux.
  • MRP4's involvement in cellular signaling pathways presents it as a potential therapeutic target.
  • Understanding MRP4's role can lead to new strategies for modulating pathophysiological processes.

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