OLIG2
Domain
The bHLH is essential for interaction with NKX2-2.
Function
Required for oligodendrocyte and motor neuron specification in the spinal cord, as well as for the development of somatic motor neurons in the hindbrain. Functions together with ZNF488 to promote oligodendrocyte differentiation. Cooperates with OLIG1 to establish the pMN domain of the embryonic neural tube. Antagonist of V2 interneuron and of NKX2-2-induced V3 interneuron development.
Involvement in disease
A chromosomal aberration involving OLIG2 may be a cause of a form of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Translocation t(14;21)(q11.2;q22) with TCRA.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in the brain, in oligodendrocytes. Strongly expressed in oligodendrogliomas, while expression is weak to moderate in astrocytomas. Expression in glioblastomas highly variable.
Cellular localization
- Nucleus
- Cytoplasm
- The NLS contained in the bHLH domain could be masked in the native form and translocation to the nucleus could be mediated by interaction either with class E bHLH partner protein or with NKX2-2.
Alternative names
BHLHB1, BHLHE19, PRKCBP2, RACK17, OLIG2, Oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2, Oligo2, Class B basic helix-loop-helix protein 1, Class E basic helix-loop-helix protein 19, Protein kinase C-binding protein 2, Protein kinase C-binding protein RACK17, bHLHb1, bHLHe19