CNTN4 Immune Checkpoint Molecule for Drug Development

Introduction to CNTN4

Cortactin 4 (CNTN4) is a type I transmembrane protein that has been identified as a potential immune checkpoint molecule in drug development research. CNTN4 serves as a cell adhesion molecule, initially playing a key role in the formation of axon connections in the developing nervous system and in maintaining the mechanical integrity and signaling properties of the synapse.

Structure of CNTN4

CNTNs are members of a protein subfamily of neural immunoglobulin (Ig) domain, Six N-terminal Ig domains followed by four fibronectin type III domains, and a C-terminal glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor to the extracellular region of the cell membrane comprise their architecture. CNTN4 transcript variants generated by alternative splicing have been reported. CNTN4 isoforms in mice are CNTN4-1 and CNTN4-2, the latter of which may represent a secreted form of CNTN4 with fully functioning Ig domains that may act as ligands.

Figure 1 Structure of CNTN4 isoforms.¹

CNTN4 in T Cells

Several studies have suggested that CNTN4 plays a role in immune regulation by modulating T-cell function. It is primarily expressed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells and macrophages and on the various types of tumor tissue. CNTN4 interacts with its receptor, Notch1, on T cells, leading to the suppression of T cell activation and proliferation. In addition, CNTN4 inhibits T cell proliferation by interacting with the amyloid precursor protein (APP).

CNTN4 for Drug Development

In the context of drug development, targeting CNTN4 has shown promise as a strategy to enhance T cell-mediated immune responses against cancer cells. By blocking the interaction between CNTN4 and Notch1, CNTN4 and APP, it may be possible to overcome the inhibitory signals that dampen T cell activity, thereby promoting anti-tumor immune responses. Research efforts are underway to evaluate the therapeutic potential of targeting CNTN4 in cancer immunotherapy. This involves developing specific antibodies or small molecules that can selectively interfere with the CNTN4-related interaction.

Services at Creative Biolabs

CNTN4 shows promise as an immune checkpoint molecule in drug development. With years of experience and cutting-edge platforms, Creative Biolabs provides a variety of services aimed at studying immunological checkpoints, such as blocking antibodies, proteins, tests, and more.

• Custom Immune Checkpoint Protein Development
• Antibody Development for Immune Checkpoints
• Immune Checkpoint Targeted Peptide Development
• Immune Checkpoint Targeted Small Molecule Drug Development
• Biomarker Development for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (ICI)
• Immune Checkpoint Assays
• Preclinical Research for Immune Checkpoint Targeting Drugs

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any additional information.

Reference

1. Zuko, Amila et al. "Contactins: structural aspects in relation to developmental functions in brain disease." Advances in protein chemistry and structural biology vol. 84 (2011): 143-80.

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