SPOC domain-containing protein 1 (SPOCD1)

SPOC domain-containing protein 1 (SPOCD1) is a transcription-associated protein that belongs to the TFIIS family of transcription factors[3]. It contains a TLD (TFIIS-like domain) and a SPOC domain, but lacks the PHD domain found in some other family members[1]. SPOCD1 plays a unique and essential role in the PIWIL4-piRNA pathway in male embryonic germ cells, acting as an adapter that recruits repressive chromatin-modifying complexes and de novo DNA methylation machinery for transposon silencing[3]. Its function is crucial for the maintenance of genome integrity in the male germline by enabling DNA methylation and suppression of young transposable elements. Unlike most other SPOC domain proteins, the SPOC domain in SPOCD1 does not act as a phospho-serine binding module and does not bind the phosphorylated or unphosphorylated C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II[1]. SPOCD1 is overexpressed in certain cancers (such as glioma) where it may promote proliferation, migration, and invasion, in part through regulation of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) expression, suggesting a potential role as a tumor marker and therapeutic candidate[5]. Mutations or dysregulation of SPOCD1 have also been associated with cases of male infertility due to its role in transposon silencing[3].

Other names

FLJ25348PPP1R146protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 146SPOC1