Ensembl ENSG00000205542 | Entrez 7114 | |
 | ||
Aliases TMSB4X, FX, PTMB4, TB4X, TMSB4, thymosin beta 4, X-linked | ||
Thymosin beta-4 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TMSB4X gene.
Contents
The protein consists (in humans) of 43 amino acids and has a molecular weight of 4921 g/mol.
Function
This gene encodes an actin sequestering protein which plays a role in regulation of actin polymerization. The protein is also involved in cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. This gene escapes X inactivation and has a homolog on chromosome Y (TMSB4Y).
Clinical significance
It has been studied in a number of clinical trials.
The thymosin beta-4 peptide, if used after a heart attack, might reactivate cardiac progenitor cells to repair damaged heart tissue.
Doping in Sports
Thymosin beta-4 was allegedly used by some players in various Australian football codes and is under investigation by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority for anti-doping violations.
On 30 March 2015, the Australian Football League anti-doping tribunal initially cleared players of the Essendon Football Club over the use of thymosin beta-4, however after an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency, this was overturned on 12 January 2016.
Interactions
TMSB4X has been shown to interact with ACTA1 and ACTG1.