Core binding factor (CBF) is a heterodimeric transcription factor that binds to the core element of many enhancers and promoters. The protein encoded by this gene represents the alpha subunit of CBF and is thought to be involved in the development of normal hematopoiesis. Chromosomal translocations involving this gene are well-documented and have been associated with several types of leukemia. Three transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq].
CBF binds to the core site, 5'-PYGPYGGT-3', of a number of enhancers and promoters, including murine leukemia virus, polyomavirus enhancer, T-cell receptor enhancers, LCK, IL-3 and GM-CSF promoters. The alpha subunit binds DNA and appears to have a role in the development of normal hematopoiesis. Isoform AML-1L interferes with the transactivation activity of RUNX1. Acts synergistically with ELF4 to transactivate the IL-3 promoter and with ELF2 to transactivate the mouse BLK promoter. Inhibits MYST4-dependent transcriptional activation