Are There Exceptions to Transcription Factors Binding to Specific DNA Sequences?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a transcription factor's DNA binding domain being able to bind to multiple DNA sequences in different or same enhancers. It is mentioned that most transcription factors only recognize a specific DNA sequence, but there are exceptions such as a transcription factor with two DNA-binding domains. However, it is also stated that transcription factors are defined as proteins that bind to DNA in a sequence-specific manner, so if a protein does not bind to a specific DNA sequence, it will not be classified as a transcription factor.
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MrGenetic
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Can be possible the transcription factor's dna binding domain's binding to two or more different DNA sequence in different(or also same) enhancers? Or there is no exception, it must be specific for dna sequence like CAATTAGTCA...
for example my book says; ''MITF's binding domain can attach just the one dna sequence in the different specific enhancers regions. Is there any different possibility?
 
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Part of the answer is tautological: transcription factors are defined as proteins that bind to DNA in a sequence-specific manner. Therefore, if a protein does not bind to a specific DNA sequence, it will not be classified as a transcription factor. There are plenty of transcriptional regulators that do not bind specific DNA sequences (e.g. chromatin remodeling proteins, RNA polymerase and many of its associated factors, the polycomb repressive complexes, etc), and some are recruited to DNA by features of the than DNA sequence (e.g. histone modifications).

For most sequence-specific DNA binding proteins, I think most will recognize only a certain DNA sequence. I found an example of a transcription factor that can recognize two distinct DNA sequences, but this is because the TF has two distinct DNA-binding domains (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1171765/).
 

1. What is the purpose of matching DNA subsequences?

The purpose of matching DNA subsequences is to identify genetic similarities between different organisms or individuals. This can help determine relationships, trace evolutionary history, and detect potential genetic disorders.

2. How is the matching of DNA subsequences done?

The matching of DNA subsequences is typically done using specialized software and algorithms. These tools compare the sequence of nucleotides in DNA samples and calculate the percentage of similarity.

3. Can matching DNA subsequences be used for forensic purposes?

Yes, matching DNA subsequences can be used for forensic purposes to identify suspects or victims in criminal investigations. It can also be used to establish paternity or maternity in legal cases.

4. What are the limitations of matching DNA subsequences?

One limitation of matching DNA subsequences is that it can only identify similarities between samples that have been previously sequenced. It also cannot provide information on non-genetic factors, such as environmental influences.

5. Are there any ethical concerns surrounding the use of matching DNA subsequences?

Yes, there are ethical concerns surrounding the use of matching DNA subsequences, particularly in terms of privacy and potential discrimination. It is important for scientists and researchers to handle DNA data ethically and with respect for individuals' rights.

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