Cyclic AMP-dependent transcription factor ATF-6 alpha (ATF6)

Transmembrane glycoprotein of the endoplasmic reticulum that functions as a transcription activator and initiates the unfolded protein response (UPR) during endoplasmic reticulum stress. Cleaved upon ER stress, the N-terminal processed cyclic AMP-dependent transcription factor ATF-6 alpha translocates into the nucleus where it activates transcription of genes involved in the UPR.

Binds DNA on the 5'-CCAC[GA]-3'half of the ER stress response element (ERSE) (5'-CCAAT-N(9)-CCAC[GA]-3') and of ERSE II (5'- ATTGG-N-CCACG-3'). Binding to ERSE requires binding of NF-Y to ERSE.