Sin3A-Associated Protein 18kDa (SAP18) is a crucial component of the histone deacetylase (HDAC) complex, which plays a significant role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. This protein is known for its interaction with Sin3A, a transcriptional repressor, and its involvement in various cellular processes.
SAP18 is classified as a part of the Sin3/HDAC corepressor complex, which is highly conserved from yeast to humans. The core components of this complex include Sin3, SAP30, SAP18, HDAC1, HDAC2, SDS3, RBBP4, and RBBP7 . The protein encoded by the SAP18 gene directly interacts with Sin3A and enhances Sin3A-mediated transcriptional repression when tethered to the promoter .
SAP18 is involved in the regulation of gene expression through its role in the HDAC complex. Histone acetylation and deacetylation are key processes in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression, and SAP18 plays a pivotal role in these processes. The protein enhances Sin3A-mediated transcriptional repression, which is crucial for maintaining proper gene expression levels .
The mode of action of SAP18 involves its interaction with Sin3A and other components of the HDAC complex. SAP18 enhances the recruitment of Sin3A to regulatory elements of target genes, thereby increasing the transcriptional repression mediated by Sin3A. This interaction is essential for the regulation of various genes involved in lipid metabolism and other cellular processes .
SAP18 is regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional and post-translational modifications. The expression of SAP18 can be modulated by various factors, and its activity is influenced by its interaction with other components of the HDAC complex. Additionally, SAP18 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) expression, which is important for lipid metabolism .