CCAAT/enhancer binding protein zeta

CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein Zeta (also known as C/EBPZ) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the C/EBPZ gene. This protein is part of the CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) family. The encoded protein interacts with CCAAT motifs in the promoters of target genes, influencing their expression. This protein is also thought to interact with other transcription factors, further regulating gene expression.

Function

The CCAAT/enhancer binding protein zeta is a transcription factor that binds to the CCAAT box, a common DNA sequence in the promoter region of many genes. This binding activity allows the protein to regulate the expression of these genes. The C/EBPZ protein is also thought to interact with other transcription factors, such as NF-Y and Sp1, to further modulate gene expression.

Structure

The C/EBPZ protein is composed of several domains, including a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) domain that mediates DNA binding and dimerization. The protein also contains a transactivation domain and a regulatory domain, which are involved in the control of gene expression.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function or expression of C/EBPZ have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. For example, overexpression of C/EBPZ has been observed in certain types of cancer, suggesting a potential role in tumorigenesis.

See Also

• CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins
• Gene expression
• Transcription factor