Anti-HP1 alpha antibody [3A11F8]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

HP1 alpha also known as HP1a or HP1 protein is a well-studied member of the heterochromatin protein 1 family. It plays a mechanical role in chromatin organization and gene regulation by binding to histone H3 when it's methylated at lysine 9 (H3K9me). This protein has a molecular mass of approximately 22-25 kDa. HP1 alpha is commonly expressed in the nuclei of eukaryotic cells where it localizes to heterochromatin regions and influences chromatin compaction.

Biological function summary

Heterochromatin protein 1 alpha acts as a modulator of gene silencing. It is part of a larger protein complex that contains various chromatin modifiers responsible for maintaining the silent state of certain genes. By mediating these interactions HP1 alpha helps regulate transcription replication timing and DNA repair processes. This regulation is essential for the structural maintenance of heterochromatin and plays a part in chromosomal stability.

Pathways

HP1 alpha is integral in the epigenetic regulation pathway along with other well-known proteins including SUV39H1 and SUV39H2 which are histone methyltransferases. HP1 alpha also links to the DNA damage response pathway where it recruits repair factors to maintain genomic integrity. Through these pathways HP1 alpha interacts closely with proteins like BRCA1 emphasizing its role in cellular homeostasis and response to DNA damage.

Associated diseases and disorders

Researchers associate HP1 alpha with cancer and developmental disorders. Alterations in HP1 alpha expression or function can lead to disruptions in chromatin organization contributing to oncogenesis by affecting tumor suppressor genes. Furthermore HP1 alpha links to disorders like ICF syndrome through its relationship with the DNA methylation process where it interacts with proteins such as DNMT3B. Understanding these connections provides insights into therapeutic approaches targeting epigenetic modifications in disease contexts.