The EGR gene, specifically EGR1 (Early Growth Response 1), encodes a nuclear protein that functions as a transcriptional regulator.
In more detail:
- Function: EGR1 is a transcription factor. This means it binds to DNA and controls the expression of other genes. It activates the transcription of its target genes.
- Role in Cellular Processes: The genes regulated by EGR1 are crucial for processes such as cell differentiation (specialization), mitogenesis (cell division), cell growth, and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
- Cancer Suppressor Potential: Studies suggest that EGR1 may act as a tumor suppressor gene, meaning it can help prevent the development of cancer.
- Protein Type: The EGR1 protein is a zinc finger protein, a type of protein that uses zinc ions to help stabilize its structure, allowing it to bind to DNA effectively.
- Aliases: EGR1 is also known by several other names including: KROX-24, ZIF-268, NGFIA (Nerve Growth Factor-Inducible Gene A), and TIS8 (Tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate-Inducible Sequence 8).
EGR1 plays a significant role in regulating various cellular processes and may have implications for cancer prevention.
