RARA : retinoic acid receptor alpha
Description
The RARA (retinoic acid receptor alpha) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
The RARA gene provides instructions for making a transcription factor called the retinoic acid receptor, alpha (RARα). A transcription factor is a protein that attaches (binds) to specific regions of DNA and helps control the activity of particular genes. The RARα protein controls the activity (transcription) of genes that are important for the maturation (differentiation) of immature white blood cells beyond a particular stage called the promyelocyte. The RARα protein binds to specific regions of DNA and attracts other proteins that help block (repress) gene transcription, the first step in protein production. In response to a specific signal, the repressive proteins are removed and other proteins that induce gene transcription bind to the RARα protein, allowing gene transcription and cell differentiation.
RARA is a receptor for retinoic acid, a vitamin A derivative. It binds to its target DNA sequences as a heterodimer with other nuclear receptors, particularly RXR. This binding is influenced by the presence of retinoic acid, which acts as a ligand, triggering changes in gene expression. RARA plays a crucial role in cell differentiation, especially in the maturation of white blood cells. It also participates in various biological processes including germ cell development, spermatogenesis, skeletal growth, and vascular inflammation. The RARA protein can interact with a variety of other proteins, including coactivators and corepressors, which modulate its activity and influence gene expression.
RARA is also known as NR1B1, RAR, RARalpha.
