DFFA
Description
The DFFA (DNA fragmentation factor subunit alpha) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 1.
DFFA, or Inhibitor of caspase-activated DNase (ICAD), is a protein crucial for the regulation of DNA fragmentation during apoptosis. This process, programmed cell death, removes toxic or unnecessary cells during development. DFFA, along with its partner DFFB, forms a heterodimeric protein complex that controls DNA degradation. During apoptosis, caspase-3, a key enzyme in the process, cleaves DFFA, causing it to dissociate from DFFB. This separation activates DFFB, triggering DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation. DFFA's C-terminal domain, specifically its four alpha-helices, directly interacts with DFFB's catalytic domain, preventing the uncontrolled fragmentation of DNA until apoptosis is initiated. Two distinct isoforms of DFFA are produced through alternative splicing of the DFFA gene.
DFFA is also known as DFF-45, DFF1, ICAD.
