Mediator complex subunit 18 (MED18)

Mediator complex subunit 18 (MED18) is a protein coding gene that encodes a core component of the Mediator complex, a large multiprotein assembly that acts as a coactivator for DNA-binding regulatory factors, regulating transcription of nearly all RNA polymerase II-dependent genes. The Mediator complex functions as a molecular bridge, linking gene-specific transcriptional activators and repressors to the general transcription machinery. MED18 is essential for proper development and gene expression in both yeast and higher eukaryotes. In yeast, MED18 (also known as Srb5) plays a specialized role in transcription termination through facilitating gene looping and recruitment of the CF1 complex necessary for transcript cleavage and polyadenylation. In Arabidopsis, MED18 interacts with distinct transcription factors to regulate plant immunity, flowering, and responses to abscisic acid via modulation of transcription initiation, elongation, termination, and chromatin modifications. In humans, MED18 is associated with the Mediator complex head module, but there is no direct evidence of drug targeting or established use as a disease biomarker. Disease associations such as Schwannomatosis exist, but MED18 is not typically considered a direct therapeutic target.

Other names

MED18FLJ20045p28bSRB5Mediator of RNA polymerase II transcription subunit 18TRAP/mediator complex subunit p28bSubunit 18 homolog

Not applicable (no direct drugs targeting MED18)