aIF2

aIF2, also known as the activating transcription factor 2, is a protein that plays a significant role in cellular responses to stress. It is a member of the ATF/CREB family of transcription factors, which are involved in regulating gene expression. aIF2 is activated by various stress stimuli, including UV radiation, heat shock, and DNA damage. Upon activation, aIF2 can dimerize with other transcription factors, such as c-Jun, to form a functional complex. This complex then binds to specific DNA sequences, known as AP-1 sites, in the promoter regions of target genes, thereby modulating their transcription. The genes regulated by aIF2 are involved in a range of cellular processes, including apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inflammation. Dysregulation of aIF2 activity has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, making it a target of interest for therapeutic intervention. Its involvement in stress response pathways highlights its critical function in maintaining cellular homeostasis and survival under adverse conditions.