ATF6

ATF6 (Activating Transcription Factor 6) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ATF6 gene. It is a member of the leucine zipper family of DNA binding proteins and plays a crucial role in the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR).

Function

ATF6 is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-regulated transmembrane transcription factor that activates the transcription of ER molecules. Under normal conditions, ATF6 resides in the ER. However, under ER stress conditions, ATF6 translocates to the Golgi apparatus where it is processed into a 50 kDa active transcription factor. The active ATF6 then moves to the nucleus where it activates the transcription of ER stress-responsive genes.

Clinical Significance

ATF6 plays a significant role in various diseases. It has been implicated in diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. In diabetes, ATF6 has been shown to regulate insulin biosynthesis and secretion. In cancer, ATF6 promotes cell survival and is associated with resistance to chemotherapy. In neurodegenerative diseases, ATF6 has been shown to protect neurons from ER stress-induced cell death.

Research

Research on ATF6 has focused on its role in disease and potential as a therapeutic target. Studies have shown that modulating ATF6 activity can influence disease progression, suggesting that it may be a promising target for drug development.

See Also

• Unfolded Protein Response
• Endoplasmic reticulum
• Leucine zipper
• Gene
• Protein