MDB4 Structure and Function

3D Model

DNA regulation is an essential process that controls gene and protein expression throughout a cell. DNA can be regulated many ways with one such method being the methylation of cytosine. This occurs through DNMT enzymes adding a methyl group to the cytosine causing the formation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC). 5mC is a transcriptional repressor that is subject to spontaneous deamination leading to the formation of products that can cause permanent mutations to the DNA sequence overtime. This can have catastrophic effects on the cell if functionally important genes are repressed or mutated. The MBD (Methyl-Binding Domain) family of proteins play a part in mediating the methylation process. With MBD4 playing a critical role in demethylating cytosine or repairing any deaminated products. The unique structure of MBD4 is essential for this process. This diagram shows the MBD4 protein in green with important features highlighted in blue and yellow. The DNA in which MBD4 binds to is shown in orange and red.