POU3F4
POU domain, class 3, transcription factor 4 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the "POU3F4" gene found on the X chromosome. POU3F4 is involved in the patterning of the neural tube and both the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hypothalamus in the developing embryo. During development, POU3F4 is also expressed in the mesenchyme of the periotic bone surrounding the inner ear. A “knockout” mice model displayed that alteration to the POU3F4 gene interrupted this mesenchymal cell differentiation in the superior semicircular canal. The deformities observed in mice were similar to those in humans with X -linked non-syndromic deafness (DFN-3). Clinical significance. Genetic testing on various persons has confirmed that mutations of the POU3F4 gene cause X-linked non-syndromic deafness (DFN-3). These known mutations include: Physical anomalies caused by POU3F4 mutations that have been recognized by high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) include absence of the central axis of the cochlea, an abnormally wide lateral internal auditory canal and a thickened stapes footplate. These anomalies are associated with X-linked non-syndromic deafness.