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The Leu-enkephalin-encoding sequence DNA-binding factor (LEF) is the transcription factor YY1
G Bakalkin1, T Yakovleva, L Terenius
1Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. georgy.bakalkin@knv.ki.se
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|February 3, 1997
Summary
The Leu-enkephalin-encoding sequence DNA-binding factor (LEF) contains the transcription factor YY1. Antibody studies suggest YY1 adopts different conformations when binding to Leu-enkephalin sequences versus canonical YY1 sites.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- A DNA-binding factor (LEF) recognizes Leu-enkephalin-encoding sequences in prodynorphin and proenkephalin genes.
- LEF comprises three subunits (60, 70, and 95 kDa), with the 70 kDa subunit being the primary DNA-binding component.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the DNA-binding subunit of LEF.
- To investigate the relationship between LEF and the transcription factor YY1.
- To explore potential differences in protein conformation.
Main Methods:
- Band shift assays using specific antibodies.
- Analysis of molecular mass and DNA-binding specificity.
- Immunological distinction using C-terminus specific YY1 antibody.
Main Results:
- The major DNA-binding subunit of LEF was identified as the multifunctional transcription factor YY1.
- Antibody assays indicated that YY1 exists in distinct protein conformations when bound to Leu-enkephalin sequences compared to canonical YY1 binding sites.
Conclusions:
- The transcription factor YY1 is a key component of the LEF complex.
- YY1 exhibits conformational flexibility, adapting differently to various DNA binding sites, including those involved in Leu-enkephalin gene regulation.