The Myeloid Cell Nuclear Differentiation Antigen (MNDA) is a protein encoded by the MNDA gene in humans. This protein is predominantly expressed in the nuclei of cells belonging to the granulocyte-monocyte lineage, which includes granulocytes and monocytes . MNDA plays a crucial role in the immune response and is involved in the regulation of transcription in myeloid cells .
MNDA is primarily expressed in myeloid cells and localizes to the nucleus . It acts as a transcriptional activator or repressor within the myeloid lineage and plays a significant role in the granulocyte/monocyte cell-specific response to interferon . The protein stimulates the DNA binding of the transcriptional repressor protein YY1 .
The expression of MNDA is upregulated in human monocytes exposed to interferon-alpha, indicating its role in the interferon response . The 1.8-kb MNDA mRNA contains an interferon-stimulated response element in the 5’ untranslated region, which is crucial for its regulation .
MNDA has been associated with various diseases, including neurodevelopmental disorders with dysmorphic facies and behavioral abnormalities, as well as herpetic gastritis . Its role in the immune response and regulation of transcription makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions in related conditions.