Transcription factor AP-1, and the role of Fra-2

Transcription factors function to regulate gene transcription. They may be constitutively expressed or may only be activated during specific situations. Activator protein-1 (AP-1) is an inducible transcription factor, and is comprised of multiple protein complexes that include the gene products of the fos and jun gene families. Numerous cellular and viral genes contain AP-1 binding sites within their promoters and, accordingly, AP-1 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of both basal and inducible transcription of these genes. fos-related antigen-2 (fra-2) has been found to have both similar and unique properties to that of other fos gene members in terms of its regulation and expression. The analysis and determination of the function of Fra-2 will provide further information on the role of AP-1.