Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 25, 2026

Identification of Transcription Factor Regulators using Medium-Throughput Screening of Arrayed Libraries and a Dual-Luciferase-Based Reporter
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The roles of ATF2 (activating transcription factor 2) in tumorigenesis

Malgorzata Gozdecka1, Wolfgang Breitwieser

  • 1Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Withington, Manchester M20 4BX, UK.

Biochemical Society Transactions
|January 21, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are crucial in cancer. This review focuses on activating transcription factor (ATF) proteins ATF2 and ATF7, exploring their roles in development and potential involvement in tumor formation.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research
  • Cell Signaling

Background:

  • Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are frequently dysregulated in cancer.
  • Activating transcription factor (AP-1) transcription factors, including Jun, Fos, Maf, and ATF proteins, are critical targets of MAPK signaling.
  • The composition of AP-1 dimers dictates cellular outcomes such as growth, survival, or apoptosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the functions of ATF2 and ATF7 in mammalian development.
  • To explore the potential roles of ATF2 and ATF7 in tumor formation.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on ATF2 and ATF7.
  • Analysis of data linking MAPK pathways, AP-1 factors, and cancer.

Main Results:

  • While Jun and Fos family members' roles in oncogenesis are established, data on ATF components are emerging.
  • ATF2 and ATF7 are implicated in mammalian development.

Conclusions:

  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the functions of ATF2 and ATF7 in cancer.
  • Understanding ATF2 and ATF7 roles may reveal new therapeutic targets in oncology.

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