Ndufa4-flox Mouse

NDUFA4, also known as COXFA4, is a component of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex IV, playing a crucial role in mitochondrial energy metabolism [4]. It is involved in oxidative phosphorylation pathway, an essential process for proper cell functioning [2].

Ndufa4-knockout (KO) mice showed abnormal histological alterations in the brain tissue, along with impaired spatial learning capacity and exploratory activity. Ndufa4 depletion in neurons also led to changes in microRNA expressional profiles, where it inhibited miR-145a-5p expression, which in turn affected the proliferation and apoptosis of neurons [1].

In head and neck paraganglioma (HNPGL), NDUFA4 knockdown impaired the assembly of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, decreased ATP production and cell viability, and increased cell ferroptosis, suggesting its role in promoting HNPGL progression [2].

In pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), NDUFA4 knockdown reduced cell proliferation by inducing G1 arrest and suppressing oxidative phosphorylation, with high NDUFA4 levels associated with a poor survival rate [3].

In conclusion, Ndufa4 is essential for mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. Through gene-knockout mouse models, its role in various disease conditions such as neuronal disorders, HNPGL, and PAAD has been revealed. These studies help in understanding the biological functions of Ndufa4 and provide potential therapeutic targets for related diseases.