POU domain class 2-associating factor 1 (BOB1)

POU domain class 2-associating factor 1 (BOB1) is a lymphocyte-specific transcriptional coactivator, principally expressed by B-cell lymphocytes, and encoded by the POU2AF1 gene. It partners with octamer-binding transcription factors Oct-1 and Oct-2 to selectively boost transcription of key genes for B-cell maturation, antibody production, and germinal center formation. BOB1 deficiency leads to the absence of germinal centers and severe defects in both B- and T-cell immune responses. Its consistent and specific expression in B-cell-derived malignancies renders it both a diagnostic marker and a potential therapeutic target, including in TCR-engineered cellular therapies for hematological cancers.

Other names

BOB.1OBF-1OCA-BOCABPOU2AF1

Drugs or therapeutic cells targeting BOB1 act by recognizing intracellular peptides derived from BOB1 presented on MHC molecules, leading to cytotoxic immune responses against B-cell tumors. Modulation of BOB1 expression or activity could influence B-cell development or survival, affecting tumor and immune cell populations.