ELK1

Function

Transcription factor that binds to purine-rich DNA sequences (PubMed:10799319, PubMed:7889942). Forms a ternary complex with SRF and the ETS and SRF motifs of the serum response element (SRE) on the promoter region of immediate early genes such as FOS and IER2 (PubMed:1630903). Induces target gene transcription upon JNK and MAPK-signaling pathways stimulation (PubMed:7889942).

Post-translational modifications

Sumoylation represses transcriptional activator activity as it results in recruitment of HDAC2 to target gene promoters which leads to decreased histone acetylation and reduced transactivator activity. It also regulates nuclear retention.

On mitogenic stimulation, phosphorylated on C-terminal serine and threonine residues by MAPK1. Ser-383 and Ser-389 are the preferred sites for MAPK1. In vitro, phosphorylation by MAPK1 potentiates ternary complex formation with the serum responses factors, SRE and SRF. Also phosphorylated on Ser-383 by MAPK8 and/or MAKP9. Phosphorylation leads to loss of sumoylation and restores transcriptional activator activity. Phosphorylated and activated by CAMK4, MAPK11, MAPK12 and MAPK14. Upon bFGF stimulus, phosphorylated by PAK1 (By similarity). Phosphorylated by PRP4K at Thr-417; phosphorylation activation ELK1 transcriptional activity (PubMed:10799319).

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the ETS family.

Tissue Specificity

Lung and testis.

Cellular localization

• Nucleus

Alternative names

ETS domain-containing protein Elk-1, ELK1

Database links

swissprot:P19419 entrezGene:2002 omim:311040

Other research areas

• Oncology