Abstract: Ras association domain family member 4 (RASSF4) involves in multiple cell physiological activities such as cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. The disordered expression of RASSF4 had shown significant correlation with tumors. To address this issue, the molecular structure, biological function, the relationship between promoter methylation and tumors were reviewed. One of the molecular mechanisms regulatingRASSF4gene expression is the DNA methylation of its gene promoter. However, the association and significance of the DNA methylation ofRASSF4gene promoter with the development of tumors are not clear. The application prospect of demethylation treatment of tumors was discussed. This review aimed to clarify the biological profile and role of RASSF4 in various tumors, thus providing a theoretical basis for the development of RASSF4 as a detection and treatment target for specific tumors.

Key words: Ras association domain family member 4, tumor suppressor, promoter, methylation, tumor