INPP4A (inositol polyphosphate-4-phosphatase type I) is a lipid phosphatase that plays a critical role in the phosphatidylinositol (PI) signaling pathway. Recent genetic studies have identified INPP4A as a novel therapeutic target for Parkinson's disease, with loss-of-function variants associated with increased PD risk.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Gene Symbol | INPP4A |
| Full Name | Inositol Polyphosphate-4-Phosphatase Type I |
| Chromosome | 9q34.3 |
| Protein Type | Phosphatase |
| Function | Dephosphorylates phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) to phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI4P) |
INPP4A is highly expressed in dopaminergic neurons and plays a crucial role in the endolysosomal pathway:
Recent studies using proteomics and genomics have identified INPP4A as a PD-relevant gene:
| Approach | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Small Molecule Activators | Develop compounds that enhance INPP4A activity | Preclinical |
| Gene Therapy | AAV-mediated INPP4A delivery to substantia nigra | Early research |
| Target Validation | Confirm INPP4A as disease-modifying target | Ongoing |