MED17
Description
The MED17 (mediator complex subunit 17) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
MED17, the gene encoding Mediator of RNA polymerase II transcription subunit 17, plays a crucial role in the complex process of gene transcription. This protein is an enzyme involved in the activation of gene transcription, a multi-step process initiated by factors that recognize specific enhancer sites in DNA. These factors cooperate with co-activators to direct the initiation of transcription by the RNA polymerase II apparatus. MED17 is a subunit of the CRSP (cofactor required for SP1 activation) complex, which, in conjunction with TFIID, is essential for efficient activation by the transcription factor SP1. Additionally, MED17 is a component of other multi-subunit complexes, including thyroid hormone receptor-(TR-) associated proteins. These complexes interact with TR, facilitating its function on DNA templates in collaboration with initiation factors and cofactors. MED17 has been shown to interact with PPARGC1A, Cyclin-dependent kinase 8, and BRCA1.
MED17 is a component of the Mediator complex, a crucial coactivator that plays a vital role in the regulated transcription of nearly all RNA polymerase II-dependent genes. The Mediator complex acts as a bridge, transmitting information from specific regulatory proteins to the core RNA polymerase II transcription machinery. This intricate process begins with the recruitment of Mediator to promoters through direct interactions with regulatory proteins. Mediator then serves as a structural scaffold, facilitating the assembly of a fully functional preinitiation complex, which includes RNA polymerase II and essential general transcription factors.
MED17 is also known as CRSP6, CRSP77, DRIP80, SRB4, TRAP80.
