DMRT genes encode a conserved family of transcription factors that share a unique DNA binding motif, the DM domain [ PUBMED:28774758 ]. This domain was first discovered in the doublesex proteins of Drosophila melanogaster [ PUBMED:9490411 ]. … expand

DMRT genes encode a conserved family of transcription factors that share a unique DNA binding motif, the DM domain [ PUBMED:28774758 ]. This domain was first discovered in the doublesex proteins of Drosophila melanogaster [ PUBMED:9490411 ]. In D. melanogaster the doublesex gene controls somatic sexual differentiation by producing alternatively spliced mRNAs encoding related sex-specific polypeptides [ PUBMED:8978051 ]. These proteins are believed to function as transcription factors on downstream sex-determination genes, especially on neuroblast differentiation and yolk protein genes transcription [ PUBMED:1907913 PUBMED:3046751 ]. The DM domain binds DNA as a dimer, allowing the recognition of pseudopalindromic sequences [ PUBMED:8978051 PUBMED:9927589 PUBMED:10898790 ]. The NMR analysis of the DSX DM domain [ PUBMED:10898790 ] revealed a novel zinc module containing 'intertwined' CCHC and HCCC zinc-binding sites. The recognition of the DNA requires the carboxy-terminal basic tail which contacts the minor groove of the target sequence.