Creb

CREB stands for the acronym "cAMP responsive element binding protein", a transcription factor that specifically binds to certain CRE sequences (cAMP response element sequence) in the promoter regions of certain genes. The binding causes an increased transcription of these genes. CREB is encoded by the gene of the same name.

CREB is activated by phosphorylation by protein kinase A (cAMP-dependent protein kinase), but also by calmodulin-dependent protein kinases or MAP kinases.

Many G-protein-coupled receptors react via CREB, such as the glucagon receptor, which controls gluconeogenesis. CREB also influences the formation of long-term memory in nerve cells. Furthermore, posphorylated CREB activates the expression of MITF (microphthalmia transcription factor), a central transcription factor that regulates the expression of enzymes and differentiation factors of the pigment system (Steingrimsson E 2004).

In angiomatous fibrous histiocytoma, fusions (see translocation below) are found between the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint 1 gene (EWSR1) and the CREB1 gene.

1. Oetjen E et al (2005) The immunosuppressive drugs cyclosporin A and tacrolimus inhibit membrane depolarization-induced CREB transcriptional activity at the coactivator level. Br J Pharmacol 144:982-993
2. Steingrímsson E et al (2004) Melanocytes and the microphthalmia transcription factor network. Annu Rev Genet 38:365-411.
3. Wilk M et al (2015) Angiomatous fibrotic histiocytoma case series with emphasis on the late fibrotic variant. JDDG 13: 441-449