MGAT4A

MGAT4A, also known as α-1, 3-fucosyl-glycoprotein 4-β-N-acetylglucosamine transferase A, has alternative names including GNT-IV, GnT-4a, and GNT-IVA. MGAT4A is a glycosyltransferase primarily involved in N-glycosylation processes, especially in the synthesis of sugar chains on proteins. MGAT4A catalyzes the transfer of N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) from UDP-GlcNAc to specific sugar chain structures on fucosylated glycoproteins, a step crucial for the proper folding, stability, and function of glycoproteins. Through its enzymatic activity, MGAT4A influences the function of various cell surface receptors and signaling molecules, including cell adhesion molecules and immune regulatory molecules. MGAT4A plays a significant role in regulating cell signaling, immune responses, and tumor biology. Abnormal expression or dysfunction of MGAT4A is associated with multiple diseases, including certain types of cancer, potentially affecting the proliferative and metastatic capabilities of tumor cells.