CBX1

CBX1 or Chromobox Homolog 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CBX1 gene. It is a member of the Polycomb group (PcG) family. The proteins encoded by this gene family are known to be involved in epigenetic regulation of gene expression during embryonic development.

Structure of the CBX1 protein.

Function

CBX1 is a component of the Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1), a multiprotein complex which controls gene silencing through chromatin remodeling. It binds to chromatin and regulates the structure of heterochromatin, a tightly packed form of DNA, which inhibits gene expression.

Structure

The CBX1 protein contains a chromodomain at the N-terminus and a chromoshadow domain at the C-terminus. The chromodomain allows the protein to bind to histone proteins in the chromatin, while the chromoshadow domain is involved in protein-protein interactions.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression of CBX1 have been associated with various types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer. It has been suggested that CBX1 may act as an oncogene, promoting the growth and spread of cancer cells.

See Also

• Chromobox
• Polycomb group
• Epigenetics
• Chromatin remodeling