TEAD2

TEAD2 (TEA Domain Transcription Factor 2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TEAD2 gene. This protein is part of the TEAD family of transcription factors, which play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression related to cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and development. TEAD2, like other members of the TEAD family, binds to the MCAT motif in the promoter regions of target genes and regulates their expression. This interaction is essential for the proper transcriptional activation of many genes involved in various cellular processes.

Function

TEAD2 functions as a transcription factor by binding to the MCAT elements (a DNA sequence) present in the promoter regions of target genes. This binding is facilitated through its TEA/ATTS domain, which is a highly conserved region among the TEAD family members and is responsible for DNA binding. TEAD2 plays a significant role in embryonic development, including the development of the heart and neural tissues. It has been implicated in the regulation of genes involved in cell cycle progression and apoptosis, making it a critical factor in cellular growth and maintenance.

Interaction with YAP and TAZ

One of the key mechanisms by which TEAD2 regulates gene expression is through its interaction with the Yes-associated protein (YAP) and the PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), which are downstream effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway. The Hippo pathway is a vital regulator of organ size and tissue homeostasis by controlling cell proliferation and apoptosis. When YAP/TAZ is translocated into the nucleus, it forms a complex with TEAD2, leading to the transcriptional activation of target genes that promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. This interaction is crucial for the regulation of cellular processes such as contact inhibition, organ size control, and regeneration.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of TEAD2 have been associated with various types of cancer. Overexpression of TEAD2, often due to dysregulation of the Hippo pathway, has been observed in several cancers and is linked to tumor growth, metastasis, and poor prognosis. As such, TEAD2 is considered a potential target for cancer therapy, with research focused on developing inhibitors that can disrupt its interaction with YAP/TAZ to suppress tumor progression.

Genetic Information

The TEAD2 gene is located on chromosome 19 in humans. It consists of multiple exons that encode the TEAD2 protein. Variations in the TEAD2 gene have been studied for their potential role in developmental disorders and diseases, although more research is needed to fully understand these associations.

See Also

• Transcription factor
• Gene expression
• Hippo signaling pathway
• Yes-associated protein
• PDZ-binding motif