Abstract:

AT-hook is a new DNA-binding motif. It is different from the other DNA-binding motifs functionally known. AT-hook motif hasfeature of four core amino acids with RGRP sequence. The specific binding of AT-hook proteins and DNA sequences isaccomplished through interaction between the amino acids of their AT-hook motifs and the AT-rich regions in DNA minor groove.The AT-hook motif exists widely in DNA-binding proteins in different species. AT-hook proteins play important roles inconstructing chromatin structure and regulating transcription of target genes, therefore affect the organism growth and development.

Key words: AT-hook, DNA-binding protein

摘要：

AT-hook是一类新的DNA结合蛋白基序,与其他功能已知的DNA结合基序不同,AT-hook基序具有以精氨酸-甘氨酸-精氨酸-脯氨酸（RGRP）四个残基为中心的特征结构。AT-hook蛋白与DNA的特异结合是通过AT-hook基序的氨基酸残基与双链DNA小沟中富含AT碱基的区域相互作用完成的。AT-hook基序广泛存在于不同物种的DNA结合蛋白中,AT-hook蛋白在染色质结构组装和对目标基因转录活性的调控中起着重要的作用,进而影响生物的生长发育。

关键词: AT-hook, DNA结合蛋白