Tfap2a - transcription factor AP-2, alpha

This gene is a member of the activator protein 2 (AP-2) transcription factor family. The protein encoded by this gene can act as both an activator and repressor of gene transcription, and plays an important role in early embryogenesis, specifically in cranial development. This protein forms both homodimers and heterodimers, and binds to a GC-rich consensus sequence found in some promoters and enhancers. Disruption of this gene causes perinatal death, with neural tube, craniofacial, and limb mesenchyme defects. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants that encode multiple protein isoforms. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2014]