The basic helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcription factor called activated B cell factor 1 (ABF-1) is expressed in a subset of lymphoid tissues, including lymph nodes, activated B cells and Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B cell lines designated as lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). The viral protein Epstein-Barr virus 2 (EBNA-2) has been identified as a potential regulator of the ABF-1 gene. The proposed studies are aimed at investigating the role of EBNA-2 and its influence on ABF-1 gene activity, and the identification of ABF-l-regulated target genes in B cells. A broad spectrum of genetic and biochemical techniques will be used, including gene cloning and sequencing, DNA microarray analysis, DNA transfections, electrophoretic-mobility shift assays, Western- and Northern blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results of these studies will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms by which EBNA-2 controls cellular gene expression and B-cell immortilization.
| Wong, J; Funes-Duran, M; Ahlberg, J et al. (2001) Characterization of a basic helix-loop-helix protein, ABF-1: nuclear localization, transcriptional properties, and interaction with Id-2. DNA Cell Biol 20:465-71 |
| Nguyen, L; Round, J; O'Connell, R et al. (2001) Isolation and characterization of the activated B-cell factor 1 homolog in Caenorhabditis elegans. Nucleic Acids Res 29:4423-32 |
