Solution structure of core binding factor beta and map of the CBF alpha binding site

The core binding factor beta subunit (CBF beta) is the non-DNA binding subunit of the core-binding factors, transcription factors essential for multiple developmental processes including hematopoiesis and bone development. Chromosomal translocations involving the human CBFB gene are associated with a large percentage of human leukemias. The N-terminal 141 amino acids of CBF beta contains the heterodimerization domain for the DNA-binding CBF alpha subunits, and is sufficient for CBF beta function in vivo. Here we present the high-resolution solution structure of the CBF beta heterodimerization domain. It is a novel alpha/beta structure consisting of two three-stranded beta-sheets packed on one another in a sandwich arrangement, with four peripheral alpha-helices. The CBF alpha binding site on CBF beta has been mapped by chemical shift perturbation analysis.