The DLL4 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of a signaling pathway known as the Notch pathway, which is important for normal development of many tissues throughout the body. The DLL4 protein attaches to a receptor protein called Notch1, fitting together like a key into its lock. When a connection is made between DLL4 and Notch1, a series of signaling reactions is launched (the Notch pathway), affecting cell functions. In particular, signaling stimulated by DLL4 plays a role in development of blood vessels before birth and growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) throughout life.
Other Names
AOS6; delta 4; delta ligand 4; delta-like 4 (Drosophila); delta-like 4 homolog; delta-like 4 protein; delta-like protein 4 precursor; delta4; drosophila Delta homolog 4; hdelta2; notch ligand delta-2; notch ligand DLL4
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 54567
- OMIM: 605185
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
