GTF3C2

GTF3C2, or General Transcription Factor IIIC Subunit 2, is a protein encoded by the GTF3C2 gene in humans. It is a subunit of the General Transcription Factor IIIC (TFIIIC), a multi-subunit protein complex essential for the transcription of genes transcribed by RNA polymerase III (Pol III).

TFIIIC plays a critical role in the recruitment of Pol III to its target promoters. Specifically, TFIIIC binds to the Box A and Box B internal promoter elements found within tRNA genes, 5S rRNA genes, and other Pol III transcribed genes. The binding of TFIIIC to these promoter elements initiates the assembly of the pre-initiation complex (PIC) necessary for Pol III transcription.

The GTF3C2 subunit contributes to the overall structure and function of the TFIIIC complex. While the precise roles of individual subunits are still under investigation, GTF3C2 is believed to be involved in DNA binding and/or protein-protein interactions within the TFIIIC complex. It likely facilitates the stable association of TFIIIC with the promoter region, contributing to efficient Pol III transcription.

Variations or mutations in the GTF3C2 gene could potentially affect the structure or function of the TFIIIC complex. This could subsequently impact the expression of Pol III-transcribed genes, potentially leading to cellular dysfunction or disease. Further research is necessary to fully elucidate the specific roles of GTF3C2 and the consequences of its dysregulation.