New insights into the multiple functions of Sp1, a ubiquitous transcription factor

Abstract

The eukaryotic transcription factor Spl is a sequence-specific DNA-binding protein that binds to GC-rich sequences in a large number of promoters. Despite its ubiquitous nature, Spl (and related factors) can modulate transcription of specific genes through interactions with cell type or stage-specific transcription factors. Spl can also directly influence formation of the transcription initiation complex. Furthermore, binding of Spl at distal promoter elements can affect formation or active chromatin structures. Thus the Spl family of proteins plays a crucial role in gene regulation in higher organisms.