Nuclear factor 1 C-type (NFIC)

Nuclear factor 1 C-type (NFIC) is a dimeric DNA-binding transcription factor in the CTF/NF-I family, encoded by the NFIC gene on chromosome 19[1][2][4][6]. It regulates expression of a wide spectrum of genes involved in tissue development, cellular differentiation, and chromatin remodeling. NFIC binds the specific palindromic DNA sequence 5'-TTGGCNNNNNGCCAA-3' found in viral and cellular promoters, activating gene transcription and also acting as a replication factor for adenovirus DNA[1][2][6]. Different alternatively spliced isoforms exist, some with specialized roles in bone and dental formation, mammary gland development, pancreatic acinar cell differentiation, and chondrocyte proliferation[1]. NFIC is involved in regulating integrin genes in epithelial tissues, affects cellular adhesion and wound healing, and interacts with other nuclear receptors and transcription factors, including the glucocorticoid receptor[1]. Its aberrant regulation has been implicated in multiple cancers—including breast, lung, gastrointestinal, and hematologic malignancies—where its expression correlates with roles as both a tumor suppressor and promoter depending on context[1]. NFIC has not yet been directly targeted therapeutically, and specific drugs modulating its activity are not in clinical use[1][2]. Its expression is being explored as a biomarker for cancer prognosis and treatment selection, particularly in immunotherapy settings[1].

Other names

Nuclear factor I CNuclear factor 1 C-typeNFINF1-CNuclear factor I/CCTFNF-I/CNFI-CCTF5CCAAT-box-binding transcription factorTGGCA-binding protein

Not applicable/none reported for drugs, as NFIC is not a direct therapeutic target to date.