4 replies to this topic

[Ikar]

Hi!

Does anyone knows what the term "chimeric" means in connection with a transcription factor?

My assumption is that a transcription factor is called "chimeric" if it can be activated by a
molecule which derives from another species.

I'll be happy if someone is can give me the exact definition.

br,
Ikar

[newarray]

Chimeric transcription factors are transcription factors with dys-regulated functions. For ex normal transcription factor which is supposed to activate expression in its chimeric form couldn't activate that particular gene expression.

Hope it convinced you.

[Ikar]

Thank you for your answer!
But that summons up another question: What is a "dys-regulation"?

I understood your explanations this way: I have a transcription that causes gene expression
of a specific gene. And if this transcription factor is transformed into it's chimeric form it
will activate the gene expression of an other gene?

[Radish]

That is a good question...

I would think that a chimeric transcription factor would be a factor with fragments/domains of different origins, not necessarily disregulated, for example:

Transcription factor A with the DNA binding domain of transcription factor B, or, mouse transcription factor A with human transcription factor A Nuclear Localization Signal.

It could potentially retain function but the protein would be chimeric...


Best regards
Radish

[Ikar]

Now I've recently read that the term "chimeric" means that such a transcription factor is
synthesized of different building block that come from different species.