APOBEC3A
Function
DNA deaminase (cytidine deaminase) with restriction activity against viruses, foreign DNA and mobility of retrotransposons. Exhibits antiviral activity against adeno-associated virus (AAV) and human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and may inhibit the mobility of LTR and non-LTR retrotransposons. Selectively targets single-stranded DNA and can deaminate both methylcytosine and cytosine in foreign DNA. Can induce somatic hypermutation in the nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. May also play a role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression through the process of active DNA demethylation.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the cytidine and deoxycytidylate deaminase family.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in peripheral leukocytes with higher expression in CD14-positive phagocytic cells. Highly expressed in keratinocytes and in periphery blood monocytes. Also detected in non-lymphoid tissues including lung and adipose tissues. Found at high levels in colorectal adenocarcinoma, Burkitt's lymphoma and chronic myelogenous leukemia.
Cellular localization
- Nucleus
- Cytoplasm
Alternative names
DNA dC->dU-editing enzyme APOBEC-3A, A3A, Phorbolin-1, APOBEC3A