NRF1

NRF1 or Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NRF1 gene. It is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in the regulation of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and function.

Function

NRF1 is a transcription factor that binds to the promoter region of genes. It is involved in the regulation of genes that are essential for mitochondrial biogenesis and function. This includes genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial DNA transcription and replication, and the electron transport chain.

NRF1 also plays a role in the regulation of cellular respiration, cell proliferation, and cell differentiation. It is essential for the maintenance of normal cellular homeostasis and the adaptation to metabolic stress.

Structure

The NRF1 protein is a member of the CNC-bZIP transcription factor family. It contains a basic region, which is used for DNA binding, and a leucine zipper region, which is used for protein-protein interactions.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the NRF1 gene have been associated with a variety of diseases, including mitochondrial diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. In particular, decreased expression of NRF1 has been observed in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and certain types of cancer.

Research

Research into NRF1 is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in disease development and progression, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target.

See also

• Transcription factor
• Mitochondrial biogenesis
• Cellular respiration