IRF4 Antibody

The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the IRF (interferon regulatory factor) family of transcription factors, characterized by an unique tryptophan pentad repeat DNA-binding domain. The IRFs are important in the regulation of interferons in response to infection by virus, and in the regulation of interferon-inducible genes. This family member is lymphocyte specific and negatively regulates Toll-like-receptor (TLR) signaling that is central to the activation of innate and adaptive immune systems. A chromosomal translocation involving this gene and the IgH locus, t(6;14)(p25;q32), may be a cause of multiple myeloma. Alternatively spliced transcript variants have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2010]

Function: Transcriptional activator. Binds to the interferon-stimulated response element (ISRE) of the MHC class I promoter. Binds the immunoglobulin lambda light chain enhancer, together with PU.1. Probably plays a role in ISRE-targeted signal transduction mechanisms specific to lymphoid cells. Involved in CD8+ dendritic cell differentiation by forming a complex with the BATF-JUNB heterodimer in immune cells, leading to recognition of AICE sequence (5'-TGAnTCA/GAAA-3'), an immune-specific regulatory element, followed by cooperative binding of BATF and IRF4 and activation of genes

By similarity.

Subunit structure: Interacts with the BATF-JUNB heterodimer. Interacts with BATF (via bZIP domain); the interaction is direct

By similarity. Interacts with SPIB and DEF6. Ref.5 Ref.6

Subcellular location: Nucleus.

Tissue specificity: Lymphoid cells.

Induction: Not induced by interferons.

Post-translational modification: Phosphorylation by ROCK2 regulates IL-17 and IL-21 production

By similarity.

Involvement in disease: Multiple myeloma (MM) [MIM:254500]: A malignant tumor of plasma cells usually arising in the bone marrow and characterized by diffuse involvement of the skeletal system, hyperglobulinemia, Bence-Jones proteinuria and anemia. Complications of multiple myeloma are bone pain, hypercalcemia, renal failure and spinal cord compression. The aberrant antibodies that are produced lead to impaired humoral immunity and patients have a high prevalence of infection. Amyloidosis may develop in some patients. Multiple myeloma is part of a spectrum of diseases ranging from monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS) to plasma cell leukemia.Note: The gene represented in this entry may be involved in disease pathogenesis. A chromosomal aberration involving IRF4 has been found in multiple myeloma. Translocation t(6;14)(p25;q32) with the IgH locus.

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the IRF family.Contains 1 IRF tryptophan pentad repeat DNA-binding domain.