Anti-TCF4

This gene encodes transcription factor 4, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor. The encoded protein recognizes an Ephrussi-box ('E-box') binding site ('CANNTG') - a motif first identified in immunoglobulin enhancers. This gene is broadly expressed, and may play an important role in nervous system development. Defects in this gene are a cause of Pitt-Hopkins syndrome. In addition, an intronic CTG repeat normally numbering 10-37 repeat units can expand to >50 repeat units and cause Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants that encode different proteins have been described. Protein function: Transcription factor that binds to the immunoglobulin enhancer Mu-E5/KE5-motif. Involved in the initiation of neuronal differentiation. Activates transcription by binding to the E box (5'-CANNTG-3'). Binds to the E-box present in the somatostatin receptor 2 initiator element (SSTR2-INR) to activate transcription. Preferentially binds to either 5'-ACANNTGT-3' or 5'-CCANNTGG-3'. [The UniProt Consortium]