TATA BINDING PROTEIN Meaning and
Definition
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TATA binding protein (TBP) is a crucial protein involved in the initiation of transcription, a fundamental process in gene expression. It is a subunit of the general transcription factor complex known as Transcription factor IID (TFIID) and is universally conserved among eukaryotes. TBP plays a central role in recognizing and binding to the TATA box, a specific DNA sequence found in the promoter region of many genes.
TBP consists of about 339 amino acids organized into two domains - the N-terminal core domain and the C-terminal stirrup domain. The core domain contains a saddle-shaped structure that enables TBP to interact with the DNA helix. This unique structure allows TBP to specifically recognize the TATA box through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. TBP binding is a key step in the assembly of the preinitiation complex, which recruits RNA polymerase II to the promoter region and facilitates transcription initiation.
Apart from its interaction with the TATA box, TBP also plays a critical role in regulating the expression of various genes. It acts as a platform for the recruitment of other transcription factors and mediates their binding to the promoter region, thus influencing the assembly and stability of the transcription machinery.
Due to its fundamental role in transcription initiation, TBP is essential for normal cellular function and development. Mutations or dysregulation of TBP can lead to various diseases, including neurological disorders and cancer. Therefore, studying the function and mechanisms of TBP is crucial for understanding the regulation of gene expression and its implications in health and disease.
