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HNF4α

Meaning

HNF4α, or Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 Alpha, is a critical transcription factor belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily, functioning as a master regulator of gene expression primarily in the liver, pancreas, intestine, and kidney. It is essential for embryonic development, tissue differentiation, and the maintenance of mature organ function, particularly in metabolic homeostasis. Mutations in the gene encoding HNF4α are directly linked to a form of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY1).