ATF-2 is a member of the ATF/CREB family of leucine zipper DNA binding proteins that regulate transcription. This family of transcription factors play an important role in cell growth and differentiation, as well as in stress and immune responses. ATF-2 is a nuclear protein that binds to DNA as a dimer, and can form both homo- and heterodimers with members of the ATF/CREB and Jun/Fos families. The ATF-2/c-Jun heterodimer acts as a stronger activator than the ATF-2 homodimer. ATF-2 plays a role in c-Jun-dependent cell cycle progression, cell survival and apoptosis, making efficient study methods in high demand.

