Transcription Elongation Factor A (SII)-Like 8, also known as TCEA1, is a protein encoded by the TCEA1 gene in humans. This protein plays a crucial role in the process of transcription elongation, which is a vital step in gene expression. The recombinant form of this protein is often used in research to study its function and interactions.
The TCEA1 gene is located on chromosome 8 at the band 8q11.23 . The gene encodes a protein that is part of the transcription factor TFIID complex, which is essential for the initiation and regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II . The protein has several important domains that enable it to bind to DNA and interact with other proteins involved in transcription .
The primary function of TCEA1 is to facilitate the elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase II. During transcription, RNA polymerase II can encounter obstacles that cause it to pause or backtrack. TCEA1 helps to resolve these issues by inducing a cut in the RNA polymerase active site, allowing transcription to resume from the new 3’-terminus . This activity is crucial for the efficient and accurate transcription of genes.
TCEA1 is involved in several key biological processes, including:
Mutations or dysregulation of the TCEA1 gene can lead to various diseases. For example, TCEA1 has been associated with Calvarial Doughnut Lesions with Bone Fragility and Van Der Woude Syndrome . Understanding the function and regulation of TCEA1 is therefore important for developing potential therapeutic strategies for these conditions.