Abstract
Human akna encodes an AT-hook transcription factor whose expression participates in various cellular processes. We conducted a scoping review on the literature regarding the functional role of AKNA according to the evidence found in human and in vivo and in vitro models, stringently following the “PRISMA-ScR” statement recommendations. Methods: We undertook an independent PubMed literature search using the following search terms, AKNA OR AKNA ADJ gene OR AKNA protein, human OR AKNA ADJ functions. Observational and experimental articles were considered. The selected studies were categorized using a pre-determined data extraction form. A narrative summary of the evidence was produced. Results: AKNA modulates the expression of CD40 and CD40L genes in immune system cells. It is a negative regulator of inflammatory processes as evidenced by knockout mouse models and observational studies for several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, AKNA contributes to the de-regulation of the immune system in cancer, and it has been proposed as a susceptibility genetic factor and biomarker in CC, GC, and HNSCC. Finally, AKNA regulates neurogenesis by destabilizing the microtubules dynamics. Conclusion: Our results provide evidence for the role of AKNA in various cellular processes, including immune response, inflammation, development, cancer, autoimmunity, and neurogenesis.
Highlights
Human akna is located on chromosome 9 (HGNC:24108), in band 32(9q32), within the FRA9E region of chromosome 9q32 [1], a common fragile site (CFS) linked to loss-offunction mutations that often lead to inflammatory and neoplastic diseases [2,3,4]
This study provided new insights into the signaling pathway leading to AKNA expression, stressing the role of AKNA in the inflammatory response
AKNA was first discovered as a maturation molecule of B lymphocytes [5], several studies revealed new functions for this protein in the immune system and in pulmonary diseases, cancer, and neurogenesis, consistent with the fact that the lifespan of AKNA-KO mice is only a few days [11]
Summary
Human akna is located on chromosome 9 (HGNC:24108), in band 32(9q32), within the FRA9E region of chromosome 9q32 [1], a common fragile site (CFS) linked to loss-offunction mutations that often lead to inflammatory and neoplastic diseases [2,3,4]. AKNA contains a 9-amino-acid sequence (RTRGRPADS) that satisfies the consensus requirements of an AT-hook DNA-binding motif. The 69-kDa F1 isoform was the first to be described, and it is one of the few functionally tested [1,6]. It contains an N- and a C-terminus AT-hook domain, which enable the protein to bind to AT-rich DNA regions. Q1 Is the scientific context clearly explained?.
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