ZNF865[5] (also referred to as BLST [2-4][6]) is a C2H2 member of the zinc finger family of proteins. Structurally, ZNF865 consists of 20 different zinc finger domains, 6 disordered regions, 2 transactivation domains, and 2 TGEKP domains.[7] Diseases associated with ZNF865 expression include Parkinson’s disease, esophageal cancer, and musculoskeletal diseases. Lack of expression of ZNF865 has been associated with increased incidence of Parkinson’s disease,[8] worse outcome measures in esophageal cancer,[8] and increased incidence of musculoskeletal diseases.
Broadly, ZNF865 is expressed across all human cell and tissue types.[7][9] Bioinformatics analysis predicts ZNF865 to be localized to the nucleus, and function in metal ion binding, DNA-binding transcription factor activity, interact with RNA polymerase II, and regulate transcription by RNA polymerase II.[9] Experimental data displays ZNF865 is a regulator of cellular senescence, cell cycle progression, DNA replication, DNA repair, and protein processing.[10][11][unreliable source] Lack of expression of ZNF865 induces cellular senescence, indicating that ZNF865 expression is necessary for healthy cell function. While increased expression of ZNF865 results in a shift in the cell cycle, increased rates of DNA replication and proliferation rates. Overall, ZNF865 has been confirmed as a regulator of cellular senescence, cell cycle progression, and DNA replication.[12]
