FOXO4-DRI: An Informational Guide for Researchers and Peptide Enthusiasts

FOXO4-DRI is a synthetic peptide designed for research applications in cellular senescence and aging. Known for its FOXO4-interfering properties, this peptide has become a focus of studies investigating cellular homeostasis, senescence-associated signaling, and protein-protein interactions.

This article provides an overview of FOXO4-DRI’s chemical structure, mechanism of action in research, experimental applications, and handling guidelines. It is intended for researchers, molecular biologists, and peptide enthusiasts seeking detailed, evidence-based information.

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What is FOXO4-DRI?

FOXO4-DRI is a short peptide engineered to modulate interactions of the transcription factor FOXO4. FOXO4 plays a crucial role in regulating cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and cellular senescence pathways. FOXO4-DRI specifically targets the FOXO4-p53 interaction, which is a key signaling mechanism in senescent cells.

In laboratory studies, FOXO4-DRI is primarily used as a research tool to explore how modulation of FOXO4 interactions influences cell senescence, tissue regeneration, and molecular pathways related to aging.

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Chemical Structure and Properties

FOXO4-DRI is a designed peptide with specific amino acid sequences intended to disrupt FOXO4 binding to p53. The peptide is synthesized to optimize cell permeability and stability for in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Key biochemical properties include:

• Molecular weight: Approximately 1,000–1,500 Daltons (depending on the variant used).

• Water solubility: Soluble in sterile water or buffered solutions for experimental use.

• Stability: Engineered for resistance to enzymatic degradation during research assays.

Its structural design allows researchers to study senescence mechanisms without interfering with other transcription factors significantly.

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Mechanism of Action in Research

FOXO4-DRI functions by selectively targeting senescent cell pathways:

• Interruption of FOXO4-p53 interaction: FOXO4-DRI binds to FOXO4, preventing it from retaining p53 in the nucleus.

• Promotion of senescent cell clearance in models: In experimental systems, this modulation can influence senescence-associated molecular phenotypes.

• Cellular homeostasis studies: The peptide is used to investigate how senescent cells influence tissue function and protein signaling in controlled research environments.

It is critical to note that all effects have been observed in laboratory or preclinical studies. FOXO4-DRI remains a research-use-only peptide, and its safety and efficacy in humans are not established.

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Research Applications of FOXO4-DRI

FOXO4-DRI is widely used in molecular biology and aging research to investigate senescence pathways:

• Cellular senescence studies: Understanding mechanisms of aging and cellular stress.

• Protein-protein interaction research: Studying how transcription factors like FOXO4 regulate gene expression.

• Tissue regeneration and homeostasis: Exploring how modulation of senescent cells may affect tissue function in preclinical models.

• Drug discovery and screening: Identifying potential molecules that influence senescence pathways.

The peptide is particularly valuable for researchers interested in the molecular underpinnings of aging and age-associated cellular phenotypes.

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Handling and Storage Guidelines

Proper handling of FOXO4-DRI is essential for research reproducibility:

• Storage: Keep lyophilized peptide at –20°C or colder.

• Reconstitution: Use sterile water or buffered saline before experimental use.

• Avoid freeze-thaw cycles: Prevents peptide degradation and loss of activity.

• Use protocols suited to experimental systems: Follow best practices for peptide-based research assays.

Adherence to these guidelines ensures reliability and reproducibility in laboratory studies.

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Safety and Compliance

FOXO4-DRI is intended strictly for research use only. It is not approved for clinical or therapeutic applications. Handling should comply with laboratory safety regulations, including proper PPE and secure storage. Researchers should follow institutional guidelines and national regulations regarding experimental peptides.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can FOXO4-DRI be used in human therapies?
A: No. FOXO4-DRI is currently designated only for research purposes and has not been approved for human use.

Q: How does FOXO4-DRI target senescent cells?
A: The peptide disrupts the FOXO4-p53 interaction in senescent cells, influencing cellular signaling pathways.

Q: How should FOXO4-DRI be stored?
A: Store lyophilized peptide at –20°C, and reconstitute immediately before use. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Q: Is FOXO4-DRI water-soluble?
A: Yes, it is water-soluble and can be prepared in sterile water or buffered solutions for laboratory experiments.

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Conclusion

FOXO4-DRI is a powerful research tool for exploring cellular senescence, protein interactions, and aging-related pathways. While its applications remain strictly experimental, this peptide provides unique opportunities for researchers to study molecular mechanisms that regulate cell function and tissue homeostasis.

For molecular biologists, gerontologists, and peptide enthusiasts, FOXO4-DRI represents an important resource for advancing the understanding of cellular aging processes.