ARID4A

AT rich interactive domain 4A (RBP1-like), also known as ARID4A, is a is_associated_with::protein which in humans is encoded by the ARID4A is_associated_with::gene.

Function
The protein encoded by this gene is a ubiquitously expressed nuclear protein. It binds directly, with several other proteins, to is_associated_with::retinoblastoma protein (pRB) which regulates cell proliferation. pRB represses transcription by recruiting the encoded protein. This protein, in turn, serves as a bridging molecule to recruit HDACs and, in addition, provides a second HDAC-independent repression function. The encoded protein possesses transcriptional repression activity. Multiple alternatively spliced transcripts have been observed for this gene, although not all transcript variants have been fully described.

Model organisms
is_associated_with::Model organisms have been used in the study of ARID4A function. A conditional is_associated_with::knockout mouse line, called Arid4atm1a(EUCOMM)Wtsi was generated as part of the is_associated_with::International Knockout Mouse Consortium program — a high-throughput mutagenesis project to generate and distribute animal models of disease to interested scientists — at the is_associated_with::Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute. Male and female animals underwent a standardized is_associated_with::phenotypic screen to determine the effects of deletion.

Twenty five tests were carried out and nine is_associated_with::phenotypes were reported. Fewer is_associated_with::homozygous is_associated_with::mutant embryos were identified during gestation than expected, and in a separate study less than the predicted is_associated_with::Mendelian ratio survived until is_associated_with::weaning. Homozygous mutant male adults has a reduced body weight curve and a decreased grip strength. Homozygous mutant adults of both sexes had a decreased body weight as determined by is_associated_with::DEXA, displayed is_associated_with::vertebral fusion and had clinical chemistry abnormalities including is_associated_with::hypoalbuminemia and decreased circulating is_associated_with::fructosamine levels. They also had haematological defects and an increased is_associated_with::NK cell number.

Interactions
ARID4A has been shown to interact with is_associated_with::Retinoblastoma protein.