FOXO4-DRI: A Research Guide to Cellular Senescence and Aging Pathways

Introduction

FOXO4-DRI is a synthetic research peptide designed to target senescent cells by modulating the FOXO4-p53 interaction. Widely studied in molecular biology and aging research, FOXO4-DRI offers insights into cellular senescence, tissue homeostasis, and protein-protein signaling pathways. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of its structure, mechanisms, research applications, and proper laboratory handling.

What is FOXO4-DRI?

FOXO4-DRI is a short, engineered peptide that selectively disrupts the binding of transcription factor FOXO4 to p53 in senescent cells. By interfering with this pathway, it allows researchers to study the effects of senescence on tissue function, protein signaling, and cellular aging in controlled laboratory settings.

Chemical Structure and Properties

• Molecular weight: ~1,000–1,500 Daltons
• Peptide type: Engineered for cell permeability and enzymatic stability
• Solubility: Water-soluble in sterile or buffered solutions
• Functionality: Specifically designed to target FOXO4-p53 interactions

Its optimized design ensures selective activity in preclinical models without broadly affecting other transcription factors.

Mechanism of Action

FOXO4-DRI’s research mechanisms focus on senescence pathways:

• FOXO4-p53 disruption: Prevents p53 retention in the nucleus of senescent cells.
• Senescent cell modulation: Influences senescence-associated molecular phenotypes in preclinical studies.
• Cellular homeostasis: Investigates tissue function and protein signaling in aging models.

All observed effects are limited to in vitro or preclinical studies; FOXO4-DRI is not approved for therapeutic use.

Research Applications

FOXO4-DRI is a versatile peptide for molecular biology and aging research, including:

• Cellular senescence studies – exploring mechanisms of aging and stress response
• Protein-protein interaction research – studying FOXO4’s role in gene regulation
• Tissue regeneration and homeostasis – evaluating senescence impact on tissue function
• Drug discovery – screening potential modulators of aging pathways

Its high specificity makes it an essential tool for understanding molecular aging processes.

Handling and Storage

• Storage: Lyophilized at –20°C or below
• Reconstitution: Sterile water or buffered saline before use
• Stability: Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
• Protocol adherence: Use standardized peptide assay methods for reproducibility

Safety and Compliance

FOXO4-DRI is strictly for research use. It is not approved for human or clinical use. Researchers must follow institutional safety regulations, including proper PPE and secure handling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can FOXO4-DRI be used in humans?
A: No, it is research-only.

Q: How does FOXO4-DRI target senescent cells?
A: By disrupting FOXO4-p53 interactions, affecting senescence signaling pathways.

Q: How should FOXO4-DRI be stored?
A: Keep lyophilized at –20°C; reconstitute immediately before experiments.

Q: Is FOXO4-DRI water-soluble?
A: Yes, suitable for sterile or buffered solutions.

Conclusion

FOXO4-DRI is a cutting-edge research peptide for studying cellular senescence, aging pathways, and protein interactions. Its precise mechanism in modulating FOXO4-p53 signaling provides a valuable tool for molecular biologists, gerontologists, and peptide researchers aiming to uncover the complexities of aging at the cellular level.