TFDP1

TFDP1 (transcription factor DP-1) is a human gene that encodes the DP-1 protein, a member of the DP family of transcription factors. DP-1 proteins act as dimerization partners for E2F transcription factors and are essential for the DNA-binding activity of E2F-containing complexes. In human cells, TFDP1 is typically expressed in proliferating tissues and is involved in the regulation of genes required for cell cycle progression, particularly the G1/S transition, DNA replication, and to some extent apoptosis and differentiation.

Functionally, DP-1 forms heterodimers with E2F proteins to recognize E2F-responsive promoter elements. The E2F/DP-1 complex recruits coactivators or corepressors and integrates signals from the RB pathway; phosphorylation of RB releases E2F-DP-1 to activate transcription of S-phase genes.

TFDP1 can produce multiple isoforms through alternative splicing; post-translational modifications regulate its activity and stability.

In disease and research contexts, altered TFDP1 expression or function has been observed in various cancers, and perturbations of the E2F/DP axis are a focus of studies on cell cycle control and oncogenesis. The gene is conserved across vertebrates, underscoring its fundamental role in cell proliferation and development.