NFIX
Description
The NFIX (nuclear factor I X) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 19.
NFIX is a protein encoded by the NFIX gene in humans. It plays a role in regulating the development of the nervous system, particularly in the hippocampus and the generation of neurons. NFIX is known to interact with several proteins, including SKI, AP-1, and STAT3. One of its splice variants, NFI-X3, regulates the expression of Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and YKL-40 in astrocytes. In embryonic development, NFIX is involved in the generation of intermediate progenitor cells (IPCs) by promoting the transcription of the protein inscuteable (INSC). INSC regulates spindle orientation during the division of radial glia cells, leading to the formation of IPCs. NFIX is crucial for the commitment of glia progeny to become IPCs. Mutations in NFIX can lead to an overproduction of radial glia, impaired IPC development, and a reduced production of neurons. In adults, NFIX is essential for the timing of neural differentiation, promoting the continued growth of the hippocampus and supporting proper memory function. NFIX might suppress oligodendrocyte expression to maintain the commitment of cells to neuron development within the dentate gyrus.
NFIX binds to the palindromic DNA sequence 5'-TTGGCNNNNNGCCAA-3', which is found in viral and cellular promoters as well as the origin of replication of adenovirus type 2. This binding can activate transcription and replication.
NFIX is also known as CTF, MALNS, MRSHSS, NF-I/X, NF1-X, NF1A, SOTOS2.
