ELK4

ELK4 (ETS domain-containing protein Elk-4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ELK4 gene. It is a member of the ETS family of transcription factors and ETS-domain transcription factor subfamily.

Function

ELK4 is a transcriptional activator that binds to the serum response element (SRE) in the promoter region of target genes. This protein mediates the signal transduction triggered by mitogens and is involved in multiple cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Structure

The ELK4 protein is composed of an ETS DNA-binding domain and a ternary complex factor (TCF) domain which is required for the activation of serum response element (SRE). The ETS domain recognizes the sequence GGAA/T in target genes.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function of ELK4 have been associated with a variety of diseases. For example, overexpression of ELK4 has been linked to certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer and breast cancer. In addition, mutations in the ELK4 gene have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.

See Also

• ETS family
• Transcription factor
• Mitogen
• Cell proliferation
• Apoptosis