Glial cells missing transcription factor 1 (GCM1)

Glial cells missing transcription factor 1 (GCM1) is a DNA-binding transcription factor that is essential for the proper formation and differentiation of specific trophoblast subtypes in the human placenta, mainly syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast[1][3][4][5]. GCM1 acts primarily as a master regulator of placental development, controlling a critical balance between cytotrophoblast proliferation and differentiation needed for successful pregnancy and fetal growth. Disruption of GCM1 function leads to impaired placentation, causing pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. GCM1 mediates its functions by binding to a unique DNA recognition site (the GCM-motif) and regulating the expression of key downstream genes, including those involved in trophoblast cell fusion and invasiveness[1][3][5]. It is highly specific to trophoblast cells and is evolutionarily conserved from Drosophila, where the gene was originally described, to humans. GCM1 is not currently considered a direct therapeutic target nor is it targeted by existing drugs[5].

Other names

Chorion-specific transcription factor GCMaGCMAhGCMaGCM motif protein 1Glial cells missing homolog 1chorion-specific transcription factor GCMa