MAX (gene)

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

MAX (Myc Associated factor X) is a gene that in humans is encoded by the MAX gene. It is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper (bHLHZ) family of transcription factors. This gene is involved in transcription regulation and cell cycle control, and it is essential for cellular proliferation.

Function[edit | edit source]

The MAX gene is a partner of MYC, a gene that plays a crucial role in cell cycle progression, apoptosis and cellular transformation. The encoded protein is able to interact with MYC and MYC-associated factor X (MAX) to form a sequence-specific DNA-binding complex that recognizes and binds to the core sequence 5'-CAC[GA]TG-3' found in a number of promoters. The MAX-MYC heterodimers activate transcription of target genes involved in cell proliferation and metabolism.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the MAX gene have been associated with hereditary pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor of the adrenal medulla, and paraganglioma, a tumor of the paraganglia. These mutations disrupt the MAX protein's interaction with MYC, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation.

See also[edit | edit source]

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External links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD