Overview:

PDE4A is a member of the phosphodiesterase family of proteins that play a critical role in regulating intracellular levels of cAMP. In vitro phosphorylation of PDE4A by the PKA-catalytic subunit increases the enzyme's sensitivity to Mg(2+), leading to a 4-fold increase in cAMP hydrolysis without affecting the Km. PDE4 is widely expressed in brain tumors and promotes their growth and treatment with PDE4A inhibitor Rolipram overcomes tumor resistance and mediates tumor regression (1). PDE4A expression is altered in patients with bipolar disorder and is a new therapeutic avenue for treatment of this disorder (2).

Gene Aliases:

PDE4; DPDE2; PDE46

Genbank Number:

NM_001111307

References:

1. Goldhoff P, et al: Targeted inhibition of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase-4 promotes brain tumor regression. Clin Cancer Res. 2008 Dec 1;14(23):7717-25.

2. Fatemi S H, et al: Phosphodiesterase-4A expression is reduced in cerebella of patients with bipolar disorder. Psychiatr Genet. 2008 Dec;18(6):282-8.