Russell Lab

Fly Sox

We are a part of Michael Ashburners laboratory and are interested in the structure and function of SOX-domain genes in Drosophila.

Sox domain genes encode proteins with HMG DNA binding domains. They can bend DNA dramatically upon binding. A SwissPDB model of SRY binding DNA

Sox domain genes encode proteins related to the mammalian testis determining factor, SRY, and are part of a larger family of transcription factors with DNA binding domains related to the general chromatin protein HMG1. The HMG-domain has interesting properties; it binds in the minor groove and induces a large bend in the DNA helix, prompting the suggestion that these proteins may have a chromatin architecture function. Many members of the family, such as HMG1, are abundant chromosomal proteins which bind DNA with little or no sequence specificity Others, such as the SOX's and the mammalian lymphocyte transcription factor LEF1, have restricted tissue specificity and exhibit a moderate degree of sequence specificity. Very little is known about the functional requirements for SOX domain genes in vivo so we have been studying these genes in flies to try and pin down their role. We have cloned 3 SOX genes from Drosophila and are studying their function. You can visit pages for each of these genes.

FlySox Dichaete 100B 50E

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