SIM2

Single-minded homolog 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SIM2 gene. It plays a mojor role in the development of the CNS midline as well as the construction of the face and head.

Function

SIM1 and SIM2 genes are Drosophila single-minded (sim) gene homologs. The Drosophila sim gene encodes a transcription factor that is a master regulator of neurogenesis of midline cells in the central nervous system. SIM2 maps within the so-called Down syndrome chromosomal region, specifically on the q arm of chromosome 21, band 22.2. Based on the mapping position, its potential function as transcriptional repressor and similarity to Drosophila sim, it is proposed that SIM2 may contribute to some specific Down syndrome phenotypes

Interactions

SIM2 has been shown to interact with Aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator.

When the SIM2 gene is tranfected into PC12 cells, it effects the normal cycle of cell maturation. SIM2 inhibits the expression of cyclin E, which in turn inhibits the cell's ability to pass through the G1/S checkpoint and suppresses the cell's proliferation ability. it also up-regulates the presence of p27, a growth inhibitor protein. The presence of p27 inhibits the activation of cell cycle regulatory kinases.