Recombinant Human ZNF384 protein

ZNF384 (Zinc Finger Protein 384) is a transcription factor belonging to the Cys₂His₂ zinc finger protein family, characterized by tandem zinc finger motifs that mediate sequence-specific DNA binding. It plays a regulatory role in gene expression, particularly during cellular differentiation and development. Structurally, ZNF384 contains an N-terminal transcriptional activation domain and a C-terminal DNA-binding domain comprising multiple zinc finger repeats. It is ubiquitously expressed in human tissues and has been implicated in both physiological processes and oncogenesis.

In cancer biology, ZNF384 is notable for its involvement in chromosomal rearrangements. Recurrent gene fusions involving ZNF384. such as EWSR1-ZNF384 or TAF15-ZNF384. are frequently observed in hematologic malignancies, including B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), and rare cases of soft tissue tumors. These fusion events typically preserve the C-terminal zinc finger domain of ZNF384 while replacing its N-terminal regulatory region with partner proteins, creating chimeric oncoproteins that dysregulate transcriptional programs. The resulting fusion proteins often exhibit altered DNA-binding specificity and enhanced transcriptional activation capacity, driving aberrant cell proliferation and blocked differentiation.

Recombinant ZNF384 proteins, generated through molecular cloning and expression systems, are essential tools for studying its biological functions and oncogenic mechanisms. These purified proteins enable in vitro analyses of DNA-binding properties, protein-protein interactions, and transcriptional activity. Researchers also utilize recombinant ZNF384 variants to model fusion oncoproteins, investigate their structural determinants, and screen potential therapeutic inhibitors. Understanding ZNF384's dual roles in normal cellular processes and malignant transformation continues to inform both basic research and clinical strategies targeting ZNF384-related malignancies.