Anti-ZIC3 antibody

Supplementary info

Activity summary

The Zinc Finger Protein of the Cerebellum 3 (ZIC3) is a transcription factor involved in the regulation of gene expression. This protein weighing approximately 52 kDa contains a C2H2-type zinc finger domain that facilitates its binding to DNA. ZIC3 plays a role in the development of various body structures such as the heart and neural system. It has its expression mainly in embryonic tissue and neural crest cells. Additionally it appears in tissues like the prostate indicating its involvement beyond developmental stages.

Biological function summary

ZIC3 is essential for normal morphogenesis and is part of a class of proteins that contribute to the formation of body asymmetry during embryogenesis. By interacting with other proteins it acts as a sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factor. ZIC3 regulates the activity of genes required for the growth and differentiation of cells in vital developmental processes. Though not a part of a larger protein complex it influences complex cellular interactions during embryonic patterning.

Pathways

ZIC3 functions primarily in the Nodal signaling pathway which plays a role in left-right asymmetry in embryos. Within this pathway ZIC3 works in tandem with proteins like Smad2 and Smad3 which transmit the signal for cell fate determination. ZIC3's influence extends to the Hedgehog signaling pathway impacting the regulation of target gene expression during development and interacting with proteins like GLI transcription factors which mediate the cellular response to Hedgehog signals.

Associated diseases and disorders

ZIC3 mutations are associated with X-linked heterotaxy a congenital condition affecting the left-right asymmetry of thoracic and abdominal organs. It relates closely to proteins within the Nodal signaling pathway where disruptions can cause improper organ placement. Additionally ZIC3 mutations have implications in various congenital heart defects and interactions with other transcription factors such as PITX2 a downstream target of ZIC3 are significant in these cardiac conditions.