TAF1

TAF1 (TATA-box binding protein associated factor 1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TAF1 gene. It is a part of the transcription factor IID (TFIID) complex, which is essential for the initiation of transcription by RNA polymerase II.

Function

TAF1 is the largest subunit of the TFIID complex and plays a crucial role in the recognition of the TATA box in the promoter region of genes. It acts as a scaffold for the assembly of the other subunits of TFIID and interacts with various transcription factors to regulate gene expression.

Structure

The TAF1 protein contains several domains that contribute to its function:

• A kinase domain that can phosphorylate other proteins.
• A bromodomain that recognizes acetylated lysine residues on histones.
• A histone acetyltransferase (HAT) domain that can acetylate histones, modifying chromatin structure.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the TAF1 gene have been associated with X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dystonia and parkinsonism.

Interactions

TAF1 interacts with several other proteins, including:

• TBP (TATA-box binding protein)
• TAF7
• TAF4

These interactions are critical for the assembly and function of the TFIID complex.

See also

• Transcription (biology)
• Gene expression
• RNA polymerase II

External links

• TAF1 gene - NCBI
• TAF1 protein - UniProt