Low-Affinity Binding Sites and the Transcription Factor Specificity Paradox in Eukaryotes

摘要: Eukaryotic transcription factors (TFs) from the same structural family tend to bind similar DNA sequences, despite ability of these TFs execute distinct functions in vivo. The cell partly resolves this specificity paradox through combinatorial strategies and use low-affinity binding sites, which are better able distinguish between TFs. However, because sites have low affinity, it is challenging understand how recognize them Here, we summarize recent findings technological advancements that allow for quantification mechanistic interpretation TF recognition across a wide range affinities. We propose model integrates insights fields genetics biology provide further conceptual understanding specificity. argue eukaryotes, target driven by an inhomogeneous 3D nuclear distribution variation affinity such locally elevated concentration allows be functional.