Nucleofilins

Nucleofilins are a class of proteins that bind to nucleic acids, playing crucial roles in various cellular processes. The term "nucleofilin" is derived from "nucleic acid" and "filin," indicating their affinity for DNA and RNA. These proteins are characterized by their ability to interact with the negatively charged phosphate backbone of nucleic acids, as well as with the bases themselves.

Nucleofilins are involved in a wide range of fundamental biological functions. These include DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. They are also essential for RNA processing, such as splicing, export, and translation. Many nucleofilins act as structural components of chromatin, organizing and compacting DNA within the nucleus. Others function as enzymes, catalyzing reactions involving nucleic acids, or as regulatory proteins that modulate gene expression.

Examples of nucleofilins include histones, which are the primary proteins involved in packaging DNA into nucleosomes. Non-histone nucleofilins encompass a diverse group of proteins with varied functions, such as transcription factors, DNA polymerases, RNA helicases, and splicing factors. The specific interactions and functions of nucleofilins are determined by their unique amino acid sequences and three-dimensional structures, which allow them to bind to specific nucleic acid sequences or structures. Aberrant nucleofilin function can lead to various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting their importance in maintaining cellular health.