The transcription factor ATF-2 (also called CRE-BP1) binds to both AP-1 and CRE DNA response elements and is a member of the ATF/CREB family of leucine zipper proteins. ATF-2 is normally activated in response to signals that converge on stress-activated protein kinases p38 and JNK. Various forms of cellular stress, including genotoxic agents, inflammatory cytokines, and UV irradiation, stimulate the transcriptional activity of ATF-2. Phosphorylation of ATF-2 at Thr 69 and Thr 71 by stress-activated kinases is necessary for transcriptional activation. In addition, mutations at these sites reduce the ability of E1A and Rb to stimulate gene expression via ATF-2.
