Cys2His2 zinc finger protein family: classification, functions, and major members

Biochemistry (Mosc). 2012 Mar;77(3):217-26. doi: 10.1134/S0006297912030017.

Abstract

Cys2His2 (C2H2)-type zinc fingers are widespread DNA binding motifs in eukaryotic transcription factors. Zinc fingers are short protein motifs composed of two or three β-layers and one α-helix. Two cysteine and two histidine residues located in certain positions bind zinc to stabilize the structure. Four other amino acid residues localized in specific positions in the N-terminal region of the α-helix participate in DNA binding by interacting with hydrogen donors and acceptors exposed in the DNA major groove. The number of zinc fingers in a single protein can vary over a wide range, thus enabling variability of target DNA sequences. Besides DNA binding, zinc fingers can also provide protein-protein and RNA-protein interactions. For the most part, proteins containing the C2H2-type zinc fingers are trans regulators of gene expression that play an important role in cellular processes such as development, differentiation, and suppression of malignant cell transformation (oncosuppression).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Multigene Family*
  • Transcription Factors / chemistry*
  • Transcription Factors / classification
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism*
  • Zinc Fingers

Substances

  • Transcription Factors