Basic transcription factor 3 (BTF3) (BTF3)

Basic transcription factor 3 (BTF3) is a critical protein-coding gene that functions both as a general transcription factor and as a component of the nascent polypeptide-associated complex (NAC) (UniProt P20290). In its role as a transcription factor, BTF3 is required for the formation of a stable complex between RNA polymerase II and the DNA template, thereby facilitating the initiation of transcription (NCBI Gene 689). As part of the NAC, it binds to nascent polypeptide chains as they emerge from the ribosome, preventing inappropriate interactions and ensuring correct protein targeting to the endoplasmic reticulum (PubMed 23535905). BTF3 is significantly upregulated in numerous human cancers, including gastric, colorectal, and prostate carcinomas, where it acts as an oncogene by promoting cell cycle progression and suppressing apoptosis (PubMed 26460660). Consequently, BTF3 mRNA has become a target of interest for RNA interference (RNAi) therapies, with experimental studies using siRNA and shRNA demonstrating reduced tumor cell viability and increased sensitivity to chemotherapy (PubMed 23535905). Despite its therapeutic potential, the fundamental role of BTF3 in global transcription and protein homeostasis poses challenges for drug development, necessitating precise delivery mechanisms to minimize toxicity in healthy tissues.

Other names

NACBNascent polypeptide-associated complex subunit betaB-TFIIDBTF3aBTF3b

RNA interference (RNAi) leading to mRNA degradation and reduced protein expression