DEK (gene)

Protein_DEK_PDB_1q1v

DEK (gene)

The DEK gene, also known as DEK proto-oncogene, is a gene that encodes the DEK protein in humans. This gene is located on chromosome 6 at position 6p22.3. The DEK protein plays a role in various cellular processes, including chromatin organization, transcriptional regulation, and DNA repair.

Function

The DEK protein is involved in regulating gene expression by interacting with chromatin and transcription factors. It has been implicated in the development of various cancers, including leukemia and solid tumors. Additionally, DEK is known to play a role in DNA damage response and repair mechanisms.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the DEK gene have been associated with certain types of cancer, making it a potential target for cancer therapy. Studies have shown that targeting DEK expression can inhibit tumor growth and sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy.

Interactions

The DEK protein interacts with several other proteins involved in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation. These interactions are crucial for the proper functioning of DEK in cellular processes.

References

1. Smith A, Brownawell A, MacNeill S, Avis J, Boon T, Young F, et al. (1996). "DEK proto-oncogene is highly expressed in astrocytic tumors and in oligodendroglial tumors". Cancer Res. 56 (8): 1741–5.

2. Wise-Draper TM, Allen HV, Thobe MN, Jones EE, Habash KB, Munger K, et al. (2005). "The human DEK proto-oncogene is a senescence inhibitor and an upregulated target of high-risk human papillomavirus E7". J Virol. 79 (22): 14309–17.