ZNF346 is a zinc finger protein that preferentially binds to double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) or RNA/DNA hybrids, rather than DNA alone . The zinc finger domains are essential not only for dsRNA binding but also for the nucleolar localization of the protein . This binding specificity suggests that ZNF346 plays a significant role in RNA metabolism and cellular processes involving RNA.
ZNF346 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell growth and survival . It has been shown to bind with low affinity to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and single-stranded RNA (ssRNA), but with high affinity to dsRNA, indicating its potential role in RNA-related functions . The protein is also implicated in the intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway mediated by p53, a crucial protein in regulating cell cycle and apoptosis .
Research on ZNF346 has provided insights into its role in RNA binding and cellular localization. Studies have shown that mutations in the zinc finger domains affect its binding properties and localization, highlighting the importance of these domains in its function . Recombinant ZNF346 is used in various research areas, including epigenetics and nuclear signaling .