Abstract
NF-Y is a CCAAT box binding protein critical for the expression of diverse eukaryotic genes. We have purified the A and B subunits of NF-Y and, using microsequencing and PCR technology, have cloned the corresponding cDNAs. NF-YA and NF-YB show stretches of arresting sequence homology to the yeast transcriptional activators HAP2 and HAP3. Unlike their yeast counterparts, however, the two mouse subunits appear necessary and sufficient for CCAAT binding activity. We hypothesize that in the case of NF-Y, DNA binding and dimerization both rely on residues within the homology domains, which include rather suggestive 'half-finger' motifs.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Amino Acid Sequence
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Animals
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Base Sequence
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Biological Evolution*
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Blotting, Northern
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Blotting, Southern
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CCAAT-Enhancer-Binding Proteins
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Cell Line
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Cell Nucleus / metabolism
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DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics*
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DNA-Binding Proteins / isolation & purification
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Gene Library
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Macromolecular Substances
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Mice
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Molecular Sequence Data
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Oligonucleotide Probes
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Peptide Fragments / isolation & purification
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Poly A / genetics
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Polymerase Chain Reaction
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Protein Biosynthesis
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RNA / genetics
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RNA, Messenger
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Saccharomyces cerevisiae / genetics*
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Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid
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Transcription Factors / genetics*
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Transcription, Genetic
Substances
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CCAAT-Enhancer-Binding Proteins
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DNA-Binding Proteins
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Macromolecular Substances
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Oligonucleotide Probes
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Peptide Fragments
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RNA, Messenger
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Transcription Factors
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Poly A
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RNA