PathScan^® RP Phospho-TFE3 (Ser321) Sandwich ELISA Kit #19205

Transcription factor E3 (TFE3) is a member of a family of basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper transcription factors that include MITF, TFEB, TFE3, and TFEC. Members of this family form heterodimers with each other, bind the same DNA sequences, and undergo the same types of post-translational modifications, including sumoylation (1). Research studies indicate that TFE3 and other family members play roles in development, organelle biogenesis, nutrient sensing, autophagy, and energy metabolism (2,3). Additional studies report that TFE3 controls the gate for pluripotent cells to exit the state of pluripotency prior to differentiation (4). Translocations involving the TFE3 gene region have been identified in a number of tumors, including sporadic renal cell tumors. Several specific translocations that result in kidney cancer and involve the TFE3 gene have been described and characterized in detail (5).
Phosphorylation of TFE3 at Ser321 by mTOR leads to cytoplasmic retention analogous to Ser211 on TFEB (6). Dephosphorylation of TFEB and TFE3 by protein phosphatase 2A in response to oxidative stress leads to their nuclear translocation and activation (7).