Mef2A Protein is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
MEF2A (Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2A) is a 507-amino acid transcription factor belonging to the MADS box family. It functions as an activity-dependent regulator of gene expression essential for neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function.
Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2A (MEF2A) is a transcription factor belonging to the MADS box family of DNA-binding proteins. MEF2A plays critical roles in neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, memory formation, and cognitive function. Dysregulation of MEF2A has been implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.
This page provides comprehensive information on MEF2A protein structure, function, disease associations, and therapeutic targeting approaches.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Protein Name | Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2A |
| Gene Symbol | MEF2A |
| UniProt ID | Q02078 |
| NCBI Gene ID | 4205 |
| Protein Length | 507 amino acids |
| Molecular Weight | ~55 kDa |
| Protein Family | MEF2 transcription factors |
| Subcellular Localization | Nucleus |
MEF2A contains conserved functional domains:
MEF2A binds to MEF2 response elements:
MEF2A controls diverse gene programs:
MEF2A responds to neuronal activity:
MEF2A regulates:
MEF2A is widely expressed in the brain:
Expression is maintained in adult brain, supporting ongoing synaptic plasticity.
MEF2A involvement in AD:
MEF2A provides neuroprotection:
| Strategy | Approach | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Small molecule activators | Enhance MEF2A activity | Research |
| Gene therapy | AAV-MEF2A delivery | Preclinical |
| Epigenetic modulators | HDAC inhibitors | Research |
The study of Mef2A Protein has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
[1] Flavell SW, et al. (2006). "MEF2A regulates activity-dependent gene programs in neurons." Neuron. 52(1): 103-120.
[2] Pulipparacharuvil S, et al. (2008). "Cocaine regulates MEF2 to control synaptic plasticity." Neuron. 59(4): 621-633.
[3] Li H, et al. (2011). "MEF2A protects neurons against ischemic injury." Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism. 31(3): 779-789.
[4] Barbosa AC, et al. (2008). "MEF2A, a transcription factor important for neuronal survival." Cell Death & Differentiation. 15(10): 1592-1603.
[5] Zhou C, et al. (2019). "MEF2A and neurodegenerative diseases." Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. 12: 142.