ARID proteins: a diverse family of DNA binding proteins implicated in the control of cell growth, differentiation, and development

Cell Growth Differ. 2002 Mar;13(3):95-106.

Abstract

The ARID family of DNA binding proteins was first recognized approximately 5 years ago. The founding members, murine Bright and Drosophila dead ringer (Dri), were independently cloned on the basis of their ability to bind to AT-rich DNA sequences, although neither cDNA encoded a recognizable DNA binding domain. Mapping of the respective binding activities revealed a shared but previously unrecognized DNA binding domain, the consensus sequence of which extends across approximately 100 amino acids. This novel DNA binding domain was designated AT-rich interactive domain (ARID), based on the behavior of Bright and Dri. The consensus sequence occurs in 13 distinct human proteins and in proteins from all sequenced eukaryotic organisms. The majority of ARID-containing proteins were not cloned in the context of DNA binding activity, however, and their features as DNA binding proteins are only beginning to be investigated. The ARID region itself shows more diversity in structure and function than the highly conserved consensus sequence suggests. The basic structure appears to be a series of six alpha-helices separated by beta-strands, loops, or turns, but the structured region may extend to an additional helix at either or both ends of the basic six. It has also become apparent that the DNA binding activity of ARID-containing proteins is not necessarily sequence specific. What is consistent is the evidence that family members play vital roles in the regulation of development and/or tissue-specific gene expression. Inappropriate expression of ARID proteins is also increasingly implicated in human tumorigenesis. This review summarizes current knowledge about the structure and function of ARID family members, with a particular focus on the human proteins.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • AT Rich Sequence
  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Division
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / chemistry
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / classification
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / physiology*
  • Drosophila / genetics
  • Drosophila / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Sequence Alignment
  • Species Specificity

Substances

  • DNA-Binding Proteins