ST8SIA4s

ST8SIA4, also known as ST8-Sia alpha-N-acetylglucosaminide alpha-2,6-sialyltransferase 4, is an enzyme encoded by the ST8SIA4 gene in humans. This enzyme belongs to the sialyltransferase family, which are responsible for catalyzing the transfer of sialic acid residues to carbohydrate chains. Specifically, ST8SIA4 is involved in the synthesis of polysialic acid, a unique glycan structure composed of repeating sialic acid units. Polysialic acid plays crucial roles in various biological processes, including neural development, cell adhesion, and immune responses. The ST8SIA4 enzyme catalyzes the formation of alpha-2,6 linkages between sialic acid residues, contributing to the elongation of polysialic acid chains. Dysregulation of ST8SIA4 activity has been implicated in several diseases, including certain cancers and neurological disorders, suggesting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Research into ST8SIA4 continues to explore its precise functions and therapeutic potential.