| Primary Identifier | IPR001275 | Type | Domain |
| Short Name | DM_DNA-bd |
| description | DMRT genes encode a conserved family of transcription factors that share a unique DNA binding motif, the DM domain []. This domain was first discovered in the doublesex proteins of Drosophila melanogaster []. In D. melanogaster the doublesex gene controls somatic sexual differentiation by producing alternatively spliced mRNAs encoding related sex-specific polypeptides []. These proteins are believed to function as transcription factors on downstream sex-determination genes, especially on neuroblast differentiation and yolk protein genes transcription [, ]. The DM domain binds DNA as a dimer, allowing the recognition of pseudopalindromic sequences [, , ]. The NMR analysis of the DSX DM domain []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. |
