
-   B4GALT4 gene expression was significantly upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). B4GALT4 plays an important role in promoting microtubule spindle assembly in HCC mediated by upregulation of PLK1 and HMMR expressions. Meanwhile, B4GALT4 knockdown downregulated the production of lumican, and repressed the expressions of PLK1 and RHAMM by regulating the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) pathway, thus suggesting that B4GALT4 is a critical promotor for HCC possiblely through its role in the regulation of microtubule and mitotic spindle organization[PMID: 34270095].

## Summary

The B4GALT4 gene encodes a beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase 4 protein, primarily involved in the synthesis of glycan chains on glycoproteins and glycosphingolipids, and contributes to the formation of complex saccharide structures like keratan sulfate. [CS: 9]

The upregulation of B4GALT4 in conditions where the colon is exposed to toxicity or stress, such as in inflammatory diseases, might be a response to facilitate the synthesis and modification of glycoconjugates on cell surfaces, which are crucial for cell-cell communication, adhesion, and immune response modulation. [CS: 8] For instance, the B4GALT4-mediated formation of sLex epitopes on mucin-type glycoproteins serves as ligands for L-selectin, which is significant in regulating leukocyte migration. [CS: 7] This process can be essential in repairing tissue damage or in mediating inflammatory responses. [CS: 8] Additionally, the involvement of B4GALT4 in glycolipid biosynthesis suggests its role in maintaining the integrity of the cell membrane and cellular communication, which are vital under stress conditions in the colon. [CS: 8]
