DPPA4

This gene encodes a nuclear factor that is involved in the maintenance of pluripotency in stem cells and essential for embryogenesis. The encoded protein has a scaffold-attachment factor A/B, acinus and PIAS (SAP) domain that binds DNA and is thought to modify chromatin. Mice with a homozygous knockout of the orthologous gene die during late embryonic development or within hours after birth. Knockout embryos are normal in size at embryonic day 18.5 but exhibit skeletal and lung tissue abnormalities. This gene, when mutated, is highly expressed in embryonal carcinomas, pluripotent germ cell tumors, and other cancers and is thought to play an important role in tumor progression. Multiple pseudogenes of this gene have been identified. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2017]

A protein domain is a distinct structural or functional region within a protein that can evolve, function, and exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. These domains in human DPPA4 often fold into stable, three-dimensional structures and are associated with specific biological functions, such as binding to DNA, other proteins, or small molecules.

Biological processes and signaling networks where the DPPA4 gene in human plays a role, providing insight into its function and relevance in health or disease.

The most significant associations for this gene, including commonly observed domains, pathway involvement, and functional highlights based on current data.

Locations within the cell where the protein is known or predicted to be active, providing insight into its function and cellular context.

Describes the biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions associated with the human DPPA4 gene, providing context for its role in the cell.