Apoptosis antagonizing transcription factor (AATF)

The apoptosis antagonizing transcription factor (AATF) is a multifunctional, nucleolus-enriched transcription factor encoded by the AATF gene in humans. AATF is notable for its interaction with RNA polymerase II and pivotal role in regulating the DNA damage response, especially by inhibiting p53-mediated apoptosis and promoting cell cycle arrest instead of cell death. Functionally, AATF binds directly to p53 protein and represses pro-apoptotic target genes, a mechanism exploited by various tumors which often overexpress AATF, correlating with poor prognosis or relapse. AATF also participates in ribosome biogenesis by binding pre-rRNA and forming a stable protein complex with NGDN and NOL10 (the ANN complex), playing a critical role in rRNA processing and 40S ribosomal subunit assembly. Loss of AATF leads to increased DNA damage, decreased proliferative capacity, increased apoptosis, and features resembling certain kidney diseases. The protein possesses a leucine zipper motif, is classified as a transcription factor, and influences both RNA and protein networks relevant to cell survival and proliferation[1][2][3][5].

Other names

Protein AATFCHE1DEDHSPC277CHE-1BFR2Rb-binding protein Che-1