HMG AT proteins, also known as High Mobility Group A/T proteins, are a group of small, non-histone architectural proteins that play a crucial role in the organization and functioning of DNA. These proteins are highly conserved and found in organisms ranging from bacteria to humans.
The proteins derive their name from their ability to bind to the minor groove of DNA, specifically to regions with a high content of adenine and thymine residues (A/T-rich regions). Due to this property, HMG AT proteins have the ability to bend and induce conformational changes in the DNA helix. This bending activity is vital for several cellular processes, including gene expression, DNA replication, repair, and recombination.
HMG AT proteins are classified into several subgroups based on their structure and functions. The best-characterized subgroup is the HMGA family, composed of HMGA1 and HMGA2 proteins. These proteins have been extensively studied for their role in regulating gene expression by modifying chromatin structure and facilitating the assembly of transcriptional regulatory complexes.
In addition to their architectural role, HMG AT proteins have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and developmental abnormalities. Altered expression or function of these proteins can disrupt normal cellular processes and contribute to disease progression.
Understanding the functions and interactions of HMG AT proteins at the molecular level is an active area of research, as it holds promise for uncovering novel therapeutic targets and developing strategies to modulate gene expression and cell regulation.
