Cytochrome P450 4X1 (CYP4X1)

CYP4X1 encodes a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes. The cytochrome P450 proteins are monooxygenases which catalyze many reactions involved in drug metabolism and synthesis of cholesterol, steroids and other lipids. CYP4X1 is highly and specifically expressed in the brain. In situ hybridization experiments suggest that CYP4X1 is mainly expressed in neurons in different regions, e.g., the brain stem, hippocampus, cortex, and cerebellum as well as in vascular endothelial cells. The function of this novel P450 enzyme is unknown, but the expression pattern of CYP4X1 suggests that it is possible that CYP4X1 plays a role in neurovascular function. The catalytic properties and physiological function of CYP4X1 are currently under investigation.