Zinc finger protein 142

Zinc finger protein 142 (ZNF142), also known as Zinc finger protein SRE-ZBP or Zinc finger protein with KRAB and SCAN domains 3 (ZKSCAN3), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ZNF142 gene. This protein is a member of the zinc finger family of proteins, which are characterized by the presence of zinc finger domains. These domains are known to play a crucial role in DNA binding and protein-protein interactions.

Structure

ZNF142 is a large protein, consisting of 673 amino acids. It contains several zinc finger domains, which are regions of the protein that can bind to specific sequences of DNA. These domains are characterized by the presence of a zinc ion, which is coordinated by cysteine and histidine residues. In addition to the zinc finger domains, ZNF142 also contains a KRAB domain and a SCAN domain. The KRAB domain is involved in protein-protein interactions, while the SCAN domain is thought to mediate homodimerization and heterodimerization.

Function

The exact function of ZNF142 is not fully understood. However, it is known that zinc finger proteins, including ZNF142, are involved in the regulation of gene expression. They can bind to specific sequences of DNA and influence the activity of other genes. This makes them important players in many biological processes, including cell differentiation, development, and apoptosis.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the ZNF142 gene have been associated with several diseases, including cancer. For example, overexpression of ZNF142 has been observed in colorectal cancer, suggesting that it may play a role in the development of this disease. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of ZNF142 in disease.

See also

• Zinc finger
• Gene expression
• Protein-protein interaction