NFAT5

NFAT5 or Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cells 5 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NFAT5 gene. It is a member of the Rel/NFAT transcription factor family, which is a group of proteins that play a crucial role in gene expression and cellular differentiation.

Function

NFAT5 is a transcription factor that is activated by osmotic stress and plays a fundamental role in the expression of genes that protect cells from the effects of high salt concentrations. It is involved in the regulation of osmotic stress-responsive genes and hence, plays a key role in the systemic control of osmoregulation.

Structure

The NFAT5 protein is composed of 806 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 90 kDa. It contains a Rel homology domain (RHD) that is responsible for DNA binding and dimerization. The RHD is highly conserved among the members of the NFAT family.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function of NFAT5 have been associated with several diseases. For instance, it has been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, NFAT5 has been found to be overexpressed in certain types of cancer, suggesting a potential role in tumor progression.

Research

Research on NFAT5 is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in osmoregulation, its potential as a therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases and cancer, and its function in other physiological processes.

See Also

• Transcription factor
• Gene expression
• Cellular differentiation
• Osmotic stress
• Osmoregulation
• Autoimmune diseases
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cancer