PE Anti-CTCF antibody [EPR7314(B)]

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

CTCF also known as the CCCTC-binding factor is a highly conserved zinc finger protein involved in transcriptional regulation and chromatin organization. It has a molecular weight of approximately 82 kDa. The CTCF protein plays a critical mechanical role in controlling the three-dimensional architecture of the genome by binding to specific DNA sequences and forming chromatin loops. It is widely expressed in various cell types across tissues where it acts as a transcriptional repressor and activator depending on the context. CTCF immunofluorescence techniques enable the visualization of its dynamic distribution and expression within the nucleus.

Biological function summary

The multipurpose CTCF protein acts in coordinating the spatial organization of the genome. It functions as an insulator by regulating the boundaries between different chromosomal domains and controlling gene expression. CTCF operates within various complexes interacting with cohesin a vital protein complex that facilitates loop formation and influences genome architecture. This interaction helps in maintaining the integrity of the genome structure and proper chromatin insulation which are essential for normal gene function.

Pathways

CTCF plays significant roles in epigenetic regulatory networks and transcriptional pathways. In the epigenetic landscape it influences gene expression through modulation of DNA methylation states at CpG islands interacting with proteins like DNA methyltransferases. In transcriptional pathways CTCF interacts with nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) which contributes to cell cycle regulation by modulating the expression of cell cycle genes. These pathways reflect CTCF's versatility in gene regulation and its influence on maintaining cellular homeostasis.

Associated diseases and disorders

CTCF disruptions have been implicated in cancer and intellectual disabilities. Mutations or altered expression of CTCF can lead to tumorigenesis as CTCF acts as a tumor suppressor by controlling oncogene and tumor suppressor gene expression. In intellectual disabilities CTCF mutations affect brain development by disrupting the expression of neuronal genes. The protein's interaction with cohesin has links to disorders such as Cornelia de Lange syndrome where cohesin complex dysfunction parallels the phenotypes seen with CTCF aberrations.