Suppressor Of Zeste 12 Homolog (SUZ12)

SUZ12 has been identified at the breakpoints of a recurrent chromosomal translocation reported in endometrial stromal sarcoma. The protein encoded by this gene contains a zinc finger domain in the C terminus of the coding region. The specific function of this gene has not yet been determined.Suz12 mutants exhibited very strong homeotic transformations and that Suz12 function is required throughout development to maintain the repressed state of Hox genes in Drosophila. Unlike most other Polycomb group mutations, Suz12 mutations are strong suppressors of position-effect variegation, suggesting that Suz12 also functions in heterochromatin-mediated repression. Furthermore, Suz12 function is required for germ cell development. The SUZ12 protein is highly conserved in vertebrates and is also related to several Arabidopsis proteins.