MAF1 negative regulator of RNA polymerase III (MAF1)

MAF1 is a highly conserved transcriptional repressor that negatively regulates RNA polymerase III (pol III)-mediated transcription by directly binding pol III, preventing its interaction with the initiation factor TFIIIB[1][2][3][4]. It responds to various cellular signaling pathways, including nutritional status and stress, via phosphorylation/dephosphorylation-dependent nuclear translocation[2][3]. MAF1 is critical in maintaining appropriate levels of pol III-derived small RNAs (e.g., tRNAs, 5S rRNA), which support protein synthesis, metabolism, and cell proliferation[1][3][4]. Beyond pol III regulation, MAF1 can modulate select RNA polymerase II targets and contributes to cell differentiation (e.g., mesoderm and adipocyte fate), lipid metabolism, and tumor suppression[3][4]. Dysregulation or reduced expression of MAF1 has been implicated in oncogenic transformation, particularly in liver cancer, and may play roles in metabolic or developmental disorders and aging[4]. No clinically approved drugs directly target MAF1, though its activity is sensitive to various cellular stresses and signal transduction modulators[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Maf1RNA polymerase III negative regulator Maf1

Direct repression of RNA polymerase III activity through binding RNA polymerase III and preventing its interaction with the initiation complex TFIIIB