Active human ATF6 peptide (ab39927)

Transcription factor that acts during endoplasmic reticulum stress by activating unfolded protein response target genes. Binds DNA on the 5'-CCAC[GA]-3'half of the ER stress response element (ERSE) (5'-CCAAT-N(9)-CCAC[GA]-3') and of ERSE II (5'-ATTGG-N-CCACG-3'). Binding to ERSE requires binding of NF-Y to ERSE. Could also be involved in activation of transcription by the serum response factor.

Ubiquitous.

Belongs to the bZIP family. ATF subfamily.
Contains 1 bZIP domain.

The basic domain functions as a nuclear localization signal.
The basic leucine-zipper domain is sufficient for association with the NF-Y trimer and binding to ERSE.

During unfolded protein response an approximative 50 kDa fragment containing the cytoplasmic transcription factor domain is released by proteolysis. The cleavage seems to be performed sequentially by site-1 and site-2 proteases.
N-glycosylated. The glycosylation status may serve as a sensor for ER homeostasis, resulting in ATF6 activation to trigger the unfolded protein response (UPR).
Phosphorylated in vitro by MAPK14/P38MAPK.

Endoplasmic reticulum membrane and Nucleus. Under ER stress the cleaved N-terminal cytoplasmic domain translocates into the nucleus.