IRF1

IRF1 or Interferon Regulatory Factor 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IRF1 gene. It is a member of the interferon regulatory transcription factor (IRF) family. IRF1 has been found to regulate the transcription of target genes, mediate cellular response to interferons (IFNs), and play a role in the regulation of cell growth, apoptosis, differentiation, and immune system activity.

Function

IRF1 serves as a transcriptional activator of genes induced by interferons alpha, beta, and gamma. Further, IRF1 has been identified as a regulator of apoptosis and cell growth. It plays a vital role in both innate and adaptive immune responses.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function or expression of IRF1 have been associated with several diseases, including cancer. It has been identified as a tumor suppressor in many types of cancer.

Structure

The IRF1 protein contains a DNA-binding domain (DBD), a protein interaction domain (IAD), and a virus-activated domain (VAD). The DBD is responsible for recognizing specific DNA sequences in the promoters of target genes.

Interactions

IRF1 has been shown to interact with a variety of proteins, including BRCA1, STAT1, and IRF2.

See Also

• Interferon Regulatory Factors
• Interferon
• Transcription Factor

External Links

• IRF1 at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)