Regulation of life and death by the zinc finger transcription factor Egr-1.
The biosynthesis of the zinc finger transcription factor Egr-1 is stimulated by many extracellular signaling molecules including hormones, neurotransmitters, growth and differentiation factors, and cytotoxic metabolites. The 5'-flanking region of the Egr-1 gene contains genetic elements that are essential in connecting stimulation of the cells with enhanced transcription of the Egr-1 gene, and subsequently, transcription of Egr-1-responsive genes. Thus, Egr-1 links cellular signaling cascades with changes in the gene expression pattern. Many biological functions have been attributed to Egr-1. Here, we discuss evidence for Egr-1 control of cellular proliferation and programmed cell death.
Thiel
Gerald
G
Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Saarland Medical Center, Homburg, Germany. bcgthi@uniklinik-saarland.de
Cibelli
Giuseppe
G
D017209:Apoptosis; D002455:Cell Division; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; D004268:DNA-Binding Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D011401:Promoter Regions, Genetic; D017434:Protein Structure, Tertiary; D015398:Signal Transduction; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*
D004268:DNA-Binding Proteins; D014157:Transcription Factors