ATF3 Human

ATF3 is encoded by the ATF3 gene, which consists of four exons that encode a 181-amino acid protein with a molecular weight of approximately 22 kDa . The protein contains a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) domain, which allows it to bind DNA and interact with other proteins. ATF3 can function as both a transcriptional activator and repressor, depending on the context and the specific genes it regulates .

ATF3 is a stress-induced transcription factor that is rapidly upregulated in response to various stress signals, including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, cytokines, chemokines, and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) . It acts as a hub in the cellular adaptive-response network, modulating metabolism, immunity, and oncogenesis .

ATF3 has been implicated in several human diseases, including cancer, atherosclerosis, infections, and hypospadias . Dysregulation of ATF3 can lead to altered gene expression profiles, contributing to the development and progression of these diseases . In cancer, ATF3 has been shown to regulate the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis .

ATF3 binds to specific DNA sequences in the promoters of target genes, often in collaboration with other transcription factors and co-activators . For example, ATF3 can co-localize with the major stress responder p53 at genomic sites, thereby collaborating with p53 to regulate p53 target gene expression upon DNA damage . Additionally, ATF3 can recruit chromatin-modifying enzymes to convert chromatin to a state permissive for transcription .

Recombinant ATF3 is used in research to study its role in various cellular processes and diseases. By using human recombinant ATF3, researchers can investigate the specific functions and regulatory mechanisms of this transcription factor in a controlled environment. This can lead to a better understanding of its role in disease and potentially identify new therapeutic targets.