c-Rel protein is a transcription factor belonging to the Rel/NF-κB family. Transcription factors play a crucial role in gene expression regulation by binding to specific DNA sequences, thereby controlling the transcription of target genes. The c-Rel protein is derived from the proto-oncogene c-Rel, which encodes the cellular version of the avian v-Rel oncogene.
c-Rel protein is involved in signaling pathways that contribute to various biological processes, including immune response, inflammation, cell survival, and differentiation. It exerts its transcriptional regulatory activity by forming homodimers or heterodimers with other members of the Rel/NF-κB family, such as p50 and p65.
Moreover, c-Rel protein is essential for the development and function of lymphoid organs, including the thymus and spleen, as well as the activation of immune cells like T and B lymphocytes. It is crucial in the initiation and maintenance of immune responses by promoting the expression of genes involved in immune cell proliferation, cytokine production, and antigen presentation.
The dysregulation or aberrant activity of c-Rel protein has been implicated in various diseases, such as autoimmune disorders, chronic inflammation, and certain cancers. Therefore, targeting c-Rel protein or its associated signaling pathways may hold therapeutic potential for manipulating immune responses and treating related diseases.
