SALL3 - Spalt Like Transcription Factor 3

This gene encodes a sal-like C2H2-type zinc-finger protein, and belongs to a family of evolutionarily conserved genes found in species as diverse as Drosophila, C. elegans, and vertebrates. Mutations in some of these genes are associated with congenital disorders in human, suggesting their importance in embryonic development. This protein binds to DNA methyltransferase 3 alpha (DNMT3A), and reduces DNMT3A-mediated CpG island methylation. It is suggested that silencing of this gene, resulting in acceleration of DNA methylation, may have a role in oncogenesis. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2011]