POU Class 2 Associating Factor 1 (POU2AF1), also known as Oct coactivator from B cells (OCAB), Oct binding factor 1 (OBF1 or OBF-1), and BOB1, is a protein encoded by the POU2AF1 gene in humans . This protein plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression, particularly in B cells, and is involved in various biological processes, including immune response and transcription regulation.
The POU2AF1 gene is located on chromosome 11 and encodes a protein that is approximately 256 amino acids in length . The protein contains a POU-specific domain, which is essential for its interaction with other transcription factors such as POU2F1 (OCT1) and POU2F2 (OCT2) . These interactions are critical for the transcriptional activation of target genes.
POU2AF1 functions as a transcriptional coactivator, meaning it enhances the transcriptional activity of other transcription factors. It specifically associates with POU2F1/OCT1 and POU2F2/OCT2, boosting their promoter activity . This interaction is vital for the proper functioning of B cells, particularly in their response to antigens and the formation of germinal centers .
In B cells, POU2AF1 regulates the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine involved in immune responses . The protein’s role as a coactivator is essential for the transcriptional regulation of genes involved in immune function and development.
Mutations or dysregulation of the POU2AF1 gene have been associated with various diseases, including primary biliary cholangitis and lateral myocardial infarction . Additionally, POU2AF1 has been identified as a hub gene in osteoporosis (OP) progression, where it plays a role in osteoblast apoptosis . Overexpression of POU2AF1 has been shown to decrease the expression of cleaved caspase-3/-8/-9, which are markers of apoptosis, while increasing the expression of cyclinD1 and Ki67, which are markers of cell proliferation .
Human recombinant POU2AF1 is used in research to study its role in transcription regulation and immune response. It is also utilized in various assays to investigate its function in different cellular processes and disease models. Understanding the mechanisms by which POU2AF1 regulates gene expression can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for diseases associated with its dysregulation.