Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
Real-time Analyses of Retinol Transport by the Membrane Receptor of Plasma Retinol Binding Protein
Published on: January 28, 2013
Retinol-binding protein 4 in skeletal and cardiac muscle: molecular mechanisms, clinical implications, and future
Kangzhen Zhang1, Lijuan Wang2, Wei Gao3
1Department of Geriatrics, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China.
Abstract:
Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) has emerged as a critical adipokine involved in the pathophysiology of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Beyond its classical role in retinol transport, RBP4 influences insulin resistance, inflammation, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cellular apoptosis in both skeletal and cardiac muscles. Elevated levels of RBP4 are associated with obesity, type 2 mellitus diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, making it a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. This comprehensive review elucidates the molecular mechanisms by which RBP4 affects skeletal and cardiac muscle physiology. We discuss its clinical implications as a biomarker for disease risk and progression, explore therapeutic strategies targeting RBP4, and highlight future research directions. Understanding the multifaceted roles of RBP4 could pave the way for novel interventions against metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.
Insights
Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is a key adipokine impacting metabolic and cardiovascular diseases by affecting muscle function. Understanding RBP4’s roles may lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic research
- Cardiovascular science
Background:
- Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is an adipokine implicated in metabolic and cardiovascular disease.
- Its functions extend beyond retinol transport to influence insulin resistance, inflammation, and muscle physiology.
- High RBP4 levels correlate with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of RBP4 in skeletal and cardiac muscle.
- To discuss RBP4's clinical significance as a biomarker.
- To explore RBP4-targeted therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review.
- Analysis of molecular pathways.
- Synthesis of clinical and preclinical data.
Main Results:
- RBP4 significantly impacts insulin sensitivity, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial function in muscles.
- Elevated RBP4 is a marker for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease risk.
- RBP4 presents a viable target for therapeutic interventions.
Conclusions:
- RBP4 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
- Targeting RBP4 offers potential for novel treatment strategies.
- Further research into RBP4 mechanisms is warranted for therapeutic development.
More Related Videos
05:03Quantitative Analysis of Dietary Vitamin A Metabolites in Murine Ocular and Non-Ocular Tissues Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Published on: December 27, 2024
08:18Methodology for Studying Interactions of Vitamin A Membrane Receptors and Opsin Protein with their Ligands in Generating the Retinylidene Protein
Published on: October 4, 2024
Related Concept Videos
01:29Factors Affecting Protein-Drug Binding: Patient-Related Factors
Age stands as a key determinant in protein-drug binding. Neonates, characterized by low albumin content, experience heightened concentrations of unbound drugs such as phenytoin and...
01:29Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy