TAF7L
taf7l Gene: A Journey into Molecular Biology
Description
The taf7l gene, located on chromosome 17p13.3, encodes a protein called transcription initiation factor TFIID subunit 7-like (TAF7L). TAF7L is a critical component of the TFIID complex, a protein assembly that plays a vital role in the initiation of gene transcription. TFIID binds to the promoter region of genes, facilitating the binding of RNA polymerase II and other transcription factors, thereby regulating gene expression.
TAF7L specifically interacts with the TATA-binding protein (TBP), the central component of TFIID. This interaction enables TAF7L to recruit other factors, including transcription factors and chromatin remodelers, to the promoter region. These interactions fine-tune the transcriptional activity of genes by modulating the accessibility of DNA and facilitating the formation of the transcription initiation complex.
Associated Diseases
Mutations in the taf7l gene have been implicated in several human diseases, including:
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): A type of skin cancer characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the outermost layer of the skin. Mutations in taf7l have been detected in a subset of SCC cases, suggesting a role for TAF7L in maintaining skin cell growth and differentiation.
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): A cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Certain mutations in taf7l have been associated with AML, particularly those that impair its interaction with TBP.
- Other cancers: Mutations in taf7l have also been linked to other types of cancers, including breast, colon, and lung cancer. However, the precise role of taf7l in tumorigenesis remains an active area of research.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 1% of SCC cases are attributed to mutations in the taf7l gene. This highlights the significance of taf7l in the development and progression of this common skin cancer.
