Transcription Factor Dp3 (TFDP3)

TFDP3 encodes a member of the DP family of transcription factors. These factors heterodimerize with E2F proteins to enhance their DNA-binding activity and promote transcription from E2F target genes. This protein functions as a negative regulator and inhibits the DNA binding and transcriptional activities of E2F factors.The deduced 405-amino acid protein has a bipartite nuclear localization signal, a central DNA-binding and dimerization domain, and an RRTYC motif predicted to interact with E2F. DP4 shares over 90% identity with DP1 (TFDP1). Western blot analysis detected DP4 at an apparent molecular mass of about 45 kD, and immunostaining of transfected human osteosarcoma cell line showed the protein was expressed in the nucleus.