ATF5

ATF5 or Activating Transcription Factor 5 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ATF5 gene. It is a member of the Activating Transcription Factor/cAMP response element-binding protein (ATF/CREB) family of transcription factors.

Function

ATF5 is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression. It binds to the cAMP response element (CRE), a sequence of DNA that is found in the promoter region of many genes. By binding to the CRE, ATF5 can either activate or repress the transcription of the target gene.

ATF5 is also involved in the regulation of cell differentiation and cell survival. It has been shown to promote the survival of various types of cells, including neurons and cancer cells. In addition, ATF5 is involved in the differentiation of glial cells, a type of cell found in the nervous system.

Clinical significance

Due to its role in cell survival and differentiation, ATF5 has been implicated in several diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In cancer, ATF5 is often overexpressed, leading to increased cell survival and proliferation. In neurodegenerative diseases, ATF5 may play a role in the survival of neurons.

Research

Research is ongoing to better understand the role of ATF5 in disease and to develop potential therapies targeting this transcription factor. For example, small molecule inhibitors of ATF5 have been developed and are being tested as potential treatments for cancer.

See also

• Activating Transcription Factor
• cAMP response element-binding protein
• Transcription factor
• Gene expression
• Cell differentiation
• Cell survival
• Neurons
• Cancer cells
• Glial cells
• Nervous system
• Cancer
• Neurodegenerative diseases