HMGA1

HMGA1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HMGA1 gene. This gene encodes a non-histone protein involved in many cellular processes, including regulation of inducible gene transcription, integration of retroviruses into chromosomes, and the metastatic progression of cancer cells. The encoded protein preferentially binds to the minor groove of A+T-rich regions in double-stranded DNA. It has little secondary structure in solution but assumes distinct conformations when bound to substrates such as DNA or other proteins. The encoded protein is frequently acetylated and is found in the nucleus.

Function

The HMGA1 protein is associated with the chromosome and has a high affinity for the AT-hook motif, a DNA-binding motif found in a variety of proteins. This protein is involved in several cellular processes, including transcription regulation, retrovirus integration, and metastasis progression in cancer cells.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the HMGA1 gene are associated with new oncogenes and can lead to neoplastic transformation. Overexpression of this gene has been found in a variety of human cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and leukemia.

See also

• HMGA
• AT-hook
• Oncogene
• Neoplastic transformation
• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Leukemia

External links

• HMGA1 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information