DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 1 (DCAF1)

DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 1 (DCAF1) is a substrate receptor protein within the CUL4-DDB1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. This protein is characterized by the presence of WD40 repeat domains and a chromo domain that enable it to recognize and bind methylated proteins, leading to their ubiquitination and subsequent degradation via the proteasome[3][4]. DCAF1 plays pivotal roles in regulating the cell cycle, chromatin remodeling, and protein turnover, making it essential for processes such as embryogenesis, gametogenesis, and maintenance of genome stability[1][2][3][4]. Aberrant function or regulation of DCAF1 has been implicated in cancer, viral infection (notably through interaction with HIV-1 Vpr), and genetic syndromes such as Woodhouse-Sakati syndrome (via DCAF17 mutation), which causes developmental, neurological, and reproductive disorders[2][4]. Given its central role in protein homeostasis and cell cycle regulation, DCAF1 is an emerging target in therapeutics research, especially in oncology and infectious disease[4].

Other names

VprBPWDR70DDB1-CUL4 associated factor 1DCaf1

Targeted protein degradation; Modulation of cell cycle checkpoints