RUNX3

RUNX3, also known as RUN and T-box transcription factor 3, is a gene that encodes a protein of the same name. This protein is a transcription factor, meaning it plays a role in controlling which genes are turned on or off within cells. RUNX3 is part of the RUNX family of transcription factors, which are characterized by a highly conserved DNA-binding domain called the Runt domain.

The RUNX3 protein is crucial for the development and function of several tissues and organs. It has been particularly implicated in the development of the nervous system, the gastrointestinal tract, and in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation. In the context of the nervous system, it plays a role in neuronal development and the establishment of sensory pathways. Within the gastrointestinal system, it is important for the differentiation of cells in the stomach lining.

Dysregulation of RUNX3 has been linked to various diseases, most notably cancer. It is often considered a tumor suppressor gene, meaning its normal function is to inhibit tumor formation. Loss or mutation of RUNX3 is frequently observed in several types of cancer, including gastric, esophageal, and breast cancers, where its absence can contribute to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the development of malignancy. Research continues to explore the precise mechanisms by which RUNX3 exerts its tumor suppressive effects and its potential as a therapeutic target.