FOXA3

This gene encodes a member of the forkhead class of DNA-binding proteins. These hepatocyte nuclear factors are transcriptional activators for liver-specific transcripts such as albumin and transthyretin, and they also interact with chromatin. Similar family members in mice have roles in the regulation of metabolism and in the differentiation of the pancreas and liver. The crystal structure of a similar protein in rat has been resolved. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

FOXA3

Function

Transcription factor that is thought to act as a 'pioneer' factor opening the compacted chromatin for other proteins through interactions with nucleosomal core histones and thereby replacing linker histones at target enhancer and/or promoter sites (By similarity).

Originally described as a transcription activator for a number of liver genes such as AFP, albumin, tyrosine aminotransferase, PEPCK, etc. Interacts with the cis-acting regulatory regions of these genes. Involved in glucose homeostasis; binds to and activates transcription from the G6PC1 promoter. Binds to the CYP3A4 promoter and activates its transcription in cooperation with CEBPA. Binds to the CYP3A7 promoter together with members of the CTF/NF-I family. Involved in regulation of neuronal-specific transcription. May be involved in regulation of spermatogenesis.

Biological Process

Anatomical structure morphogenesis Source: GO_Central
Cell differentiation Source: GO_Central
Cellular glucose homeostasis Source: UniProtKB
Cellular response to starvation Source: Ensembl
Chromatin organization Source: UniProtKB-KW
Hematopoietic stem cell homeostasis Source: Ensembl
Positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II Source: UniProtKB
Regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II Source: GO_Central
Spermatogenesis Source: UniProtKB-KW

Cellular Location

Nucleus