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The Intriguing World of the CTCF Gene: Unlocking Its Role in Health and Disease
Description
The CTCF (CCCTC-binding factor) gene is an essential player in the complex world of gene regulation. It acts as a master switch, turning genes on or off and determining which parts of the DNA are accessible to other regulatory proteins. CTCF is present in both humans and animals, highlighting its fundamental role in life.
Associated Diseases
Disruptions in the CTCF gene have been linked to various human diseases, including:
- Cancer: CTCF is involved in the silencing of tumor suppressor genes, contributing to cancer development.
- Neurological Disorders: Mutations in CTCF have been associated with autism, schizophrenia, and other neurological conditions.
- Developmental Abnormalities: CTCF plays a critical role in embryonic development, and its dysfunction can lead to birth defects.
Did you Know ?
Recent studies estimate that CTCF is responsible for controlling the accessibility of approximately 15% of the human genome. This staggering statistic underscores the immense impact of CTCF on gene regulation.
