Recombinant Human Transcription factor MafF (MAFF)

Uniprot Id

Q9ULX9

Target Species

Human

Target Name

MAFF

Target Full Name

Transcription factor MafF

Target Function

Since they lack a putative transactivation domain, the small Mafs behave as transcriptional repressors when they dimerize among themselves. However, they seem to serve as transcriptional activators by dimerizing with other (usually larger) basic-zipper proteins, such as NFE2L1/NRF1, and recruiting them to specific DNA-binding sites. Interacts with the upstream promoter region of the oxytocin receptor gene. May be a transcriptional enhancer in the up-regulation of the oxytocin receptor gene at parturition.

Target Subcellular Location

Nucleus.

Target Protein Families

BZIP family, Maf subfamily

Target Tissue Specificity

Expressed in the term myometrium and kidney.

Target Synonyms

Avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma virus (v maf) AS42 oncogene, protein F; CTA 447C4.1; hMafF; MAFF; MAFF_HUMAN; OTTHUMP00000199299; Transcription factor MafF; U MAF; U-Maf; V maf avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene family, protein F; V maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog F (avian); V maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog F; V-maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog F

Target Background

The protein encoded by this gene is a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor that lacks a transactivation domain. It is known to bind the US-2 DNA element in the promoter of the oxytocin receptor (OTR) gene and most likely heterodimerizes with other leucine zipper-containing proteins to enhance expression of the OTR gene during term pregnancy. The encoded protein can also form homodimers, and since it lacks a transactivation domain, the homodimer may act as a repressor of transcription. This gene may also be involved in the cellular stress response. Multiple transcript variants encoding two different isoforms have been found for this gene.