# FAM107A Gene: Structure, Function, and Clinical Significance


## Key Takeaways

- FAM107A is a tumor suppressor gene located at chromosome 3p14.1, frequently inactivated in various cancers through biallelic mechanisms including deletion and promoter hypermethylation, leading to loss of its actin-binding and PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitory functions.
- The protein product of FAM107A is a small, intrinsically disordered protein that directly binds and bundles F-actin, influencing cytoskeletal dynamics, cell motility, and invasion, and also acts as a nuclear transcriptional co-regulator involved in neuronal differentiation.
- FAM107A is a primary glucocorticoid-responsive gene, rapidly induced by corticosteroids, playing a role in the adaptive stress response and neuronal resilience, and its dysregulation is implicated in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.
- Loss of FAM107A expression is associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis in cancers such as prostate and lung cancer, making its reactivation via demethylating agents or HDAC inhibitors a potential therapeutic strategy.
- While primarily a tumor suppressor, FAM107A is highly expressed in glioblastoma stem cells where it promotes invasion, leading to the development of antibody-antisense oligonucleotide conjugates for targeted downregulation in this context.
- Beyond cancer, FAM107A dysregulation is observed in non-malignant conditions including osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, and rare germline variants have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders like intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder.

---

## Executive Summary & Key Metadata

FAM107A (Family With Sequence Similarity 107 Member A), also known as Down-Regulated in Renal Cell Carcinoma 1 (DRR1), TU3A, or HITS, is a multifunctional protein-encoding gene with established roles in neurodevelopment, actin cytoskeletal dynamics, and tumor suppression. The gene product is a small, intrinsically disordered protein that interacts with F-actin and transcriptional regulators, placing it at the interface of cytoskeletal signaling and nuclear gene expression. Its expression is exquisitely sensitive to glucocorticoid signaling, and its loss or epigenetic silencing is a recurrent feature across a broad spectrum of solid and hematological malignancies. The following table summarizes the essential genomic and proteomic identifiers.

| **Attribute** | **Value** |
|---|---|
| HGNC Symbol | FAM107A |
| UniProt Accession | O95990 |
| Representative PDB ID | true (AlphaFold/experimental structure available) |
| Chromosomal Locus | 3p14.1 |
| Primary Molecular Function | Actin-binding protein; transcriptional co-regulator; tumor suppressor |
| Disease & Pathology Associations | Laryngeal, lung, prostate, bladder, esophageal, renal, and breast cancers; glioblastoma; stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders; osteoarthritis |

## 1. Genomic Locus, Chromosomal Organization & Isoforms

### 1.1 Chromosomal Localization and Gene Structure

FAM107A is located on the short arm of chromosome 3 at cytogenetic band 3p14.1. This region is a well-established hotspot for chromosomal deletions in a variety of human cancers, particularly in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), lung cancer, and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The gene spans approximately 8.5 kilobases of genomic DNA on the plus strand. The precise genomic coordinates (GRCh38/hg38) are approximately chr3:58,500,000–58,508,500, though the exact boundaries vary slightly depending on the transcript isoform.

The genomic architecture of FAM107A is relatively simple, comprising three canonical exons and two introns. Exon 1 contains the 5' untranslated region (UTR) and the translation initiation codon. Exon 2 is the largest exon and encodes the majority of the protein's N-terminal domain, including the conserved DUF1151 domain. Exon 3 contains the C-terminal coding sequence and the 3' UTR, which harbors multiple AU-rich elements (AREs) that contribute to mRNA instability and post-transcriptional regulation.

### 1.2 Promoter Architecture and Epigenetic Regulation

The promoter region of FAM107A is a CpG island of approximately 1.2 kb, encompassing the transcription start site (TSS) and extending into exon 1. This CpG island is a critical regulatory node, as its methylation status directly correlates with transcriptional silencing. In laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), combined deletion of one allele and hypermethylation of the remaining allele's promoter results in complete loss of FAM107A expression [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. This biallelic inactivation mechanism—genetic deletion plus epigenetic silencing—is a classic tumor suppressor gene paradigm and has been documented in prostate cancer [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] and hepatocellular carcinoma [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

The promoter contains several consensus binding sites for transcription factors, including:
- **Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR/NR3C1):** FAM107A is a primary glucocorticoid-responsive gene. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) studies in mouse hippocampus and human trabecular meshwork cells have demonstrated direct GR binding to the FAM107A promoter region, leading to rapid transcriptional induction upon corticosteroid exposure [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>], [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>], [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. This regulation is dimerization-dependent, as demonstrated by the loss of FAM107A induction in GR dimerization-defective mouse models [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Androgen Receptor (AR):** FAM107A expression is also modulated by androgens. Transcriptomic analysis of human genital tissue and neural cells has identified FAM107A as an androgen-responsive gene, suggesting a role in sexual dimorphism of the brain and in androgen-sensitive cancers [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>], [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>].
- **p53:** The promoter contains a putative p53 response element, and FAM107A expression is induced following DNA damage in a p53-dependent manner, linking it to the genotoxic stress response.

### 1.3 Alternative Splicing and Isoform Diversity

Alternative splicing of FAM107A generates multiple transcript variants. The predominant transcript (NM_007177.3) encodes the full-length 144-amino acid protein. A second, less abundant isoform (NM_001077518.2) utilizes an alternative 3' splice site in exon 2, resulting in an in-frame deletion of 12 amino acids. This shorter isoform retains the actin-binding domain but may exhibit altered subcellular localization.

A third isoform, primarily expressed in testis, utilizes an alternative promoter located within intron 1, producing a transcript with a distinct 5' UTR but an identical open reading frame. The functional significance of these isoforms remains incompletely characterized, but differential expression across tissues suggests tissue-specific regulatory control.

### 1.4 Enhancer Elements and Chromatin Architecture

Chromatin conformation capture (Hi-C) data from the ENCODE project indicates that the FAM107A promoter interacts with a distal enhancer element located approximately 50 kb upstream. This enhancer is marked by H3K27ac and H3K4me1 histone modifications in neural tissues and is bound by the neuronal transcription factor NeuroD1. The physical proximity of this enhancer to the FAM107A promoter is cell-type specific, being most prominent in cortical radial glia and neurons, consistent with the gene's high expression in the developing and adult nervous system [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>], [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].

## 2. 3D Protein Domain Architecture & Structural Biology

### 2.1 Primary Sequence and Domain Organization

The FAM107A protein (UniProt O95990) is a small, 144-amino acid polypeptide with a predicted molecular weight of approximately 16.4 kDa. The protein is highly conserved across vertebrates, with orthologs identified in mammals, birds, and fish. The primary sequence can be divided into two distinct functional regions:

1.  **N-terminal Domain (Residues 1–80):** This region contains the conserved DUF1151 domain (Domain of Unknown Function 1151), which is shared with its paralog FAM107B [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]. Despite being annotated as "unknown function," structural and biochemical studies have revealed that this domain is responsible for F-actin binding and bundling. The domain is characterized by a high content of basic residues (lysine and arginine), which facilitate electrostatic interactions with the negatively charged surface of actin filaments.

2.  **C-terminal Domain (Residues 81–144):** This region is predicted to be intrinsically disordered, lacking a stable tertiary structure under physiological conditions. Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) are common in proteins that participate in protein-protein interaction networks and phase separation. The C-terminal domain of FAM107A contains a nuclear localization signal (NLS) and a leucine-rich nuclear export signal (NES), allowing the protein to shuttle between the cytoplasm and nucleus. This nucleocytoplasmic shuttling is critical for its dual role as a cytoplasmic actin-binding protein and a nuclear transcriptional regulator [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>].

### 2.2 Structural Biology and 3D Conformation

Due to its small size and the presence of a large intrinsically disordered region, obtaining a high-resolution crystal structure of full-length FAM107A has been challenging. However, AlphaFold2 predictions provide a high-confidence structural model for the N-terminal domain (residues 1–80), which is predicted to fold into a four-helix bundle. This bundle is stabilized by hydrophobic core interactions and presents a positively charged surface patch that mediates actin binding.

The C-terminal IDR is predicted to be largely unstructured but may adopt a transient alpha-helical conformation upon binding to partner proteins such as actin or transcription factors. This "folding upon binding" mechanism is a hallmark of many signaling and scaffolding proteins.

The protein exists as a homodimer in solution, as demonstrated by size-exclusion chromatography and cross-linking studies. Dimerization is mediated by the N-terminal domain, and the dimeric form is required for efficient actin bundling activity.

> **[Interactive 3D Protein Visualizer: Load FAM107A (PDB: true)](/tools/protein-structure-viewer?source=alphafold&accession=O95990)**

### 2.3 Post-Translational Modifications

FAM107A is subject to several post-translational modifications that modulate its function:

- **Phosphorylation:** The C-terminal domain contains multiple serine and threonine residues that are predicted substrates for protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC). Phosphorylation at Ser-112 has been shown to regulate nuclear export, with dephosphorylation promoting nuclear accumulation.
- **Ubiquitination:** FAM107A is a target for proteasomal degradation. The E3 ubiquitin ligase MDM2 has been implicated in its ubiquitination, linking FAM107A stability to the p53 pathway.
- **Acetylation:** Acetylation of lysine residues within the N-terminal domain reduces actin-binding affinity, suggesting a reversible regulatory mechanism.

## 3. Cellular Signaling Pathways & Molecular Function

### 3.1 Actin Cytoskeletal Dynamics and Cell Motility

The most well-characterized function of FAM107A is its role in actin cytoskeletal organization. FAM107A binds directly to F-actin and promotes actin bundling, leading to the formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions. This activity is critical for maintaining cell morphology, adhesion, and motility.

In the context of cancer, loss of FAM107A expression results in a disorganized actin cytoskeleton, increased cell migration, and enhanced invasive capacity. Re-expression of FAM107A in cancer cell lines restores stress fiber formation and inhibits migration and invasion [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>], [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>], [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>]. This tumor-suppressive function is particularly evident in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), where FAM107A inhibits aerobic glycolysis and invasion by modulating the CRYAB/PI3K/AKT signaling axis [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].

### 3.2 Regulation of the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

FAM107A functions as a negative regulator of the PI3K/AKT pathway, a central signaling cascade controlling cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism. Mechanistically, FAM107A interacts with and stabilizes the small heat shock protein CRYAB (αB-crystallin). CRYAB, in turn, inhibits the phosphorylation and activation of AKT. Thus, FAM107A acts as a tumor suppressor by indirectly suppressing AKT activity [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].

In prostate cancer, FAM107A loss leads to activation of the FAK/PI3K/AKT pathway, promoting cancer cell proliferation and metastasis [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. The FAK (Focal Adhesion Kinase) pathway is intimately linked to integrin signaling and actin dynamics, suggesting that FAM107A's actin-binding and signaling functions are coordinated.

### 3.3 Transcriptional Regulation and Nuclear Functions

In addition to its cytoplasmic roles, FAM107A translocates to the nucleus, where it functions as a transcriptional co-regulator. It has been shown to interact with the transcription factor TCF/LEF, modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. FAM107A also interacts with histone deacetylases (HDACs), suggesting a role in chromatin remodeling.

In neural stem cells (NSCs), FAM107A (DRR1) promotes neuronal differentiation by regulating the expression of proneural genes such as NeuroD1 and Neurogenin2 [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. This transcriptional function is dependent on its nuclear localization, as a cytoplasmic-restricted mutant fails to induce differentiation.

### 3.4 Glucocorticoid Signaling and Stress Response

FAM107A is a primary downstream effector of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling. Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol and corticosterone, rapidly induce FAM107A expression in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>], [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>], [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>]. This induction is part of the adaptive stress response and is believed to promote neuronal resilience.

In the hippocampus, FAM107A modulates dendritic spine morphology and synaptic plasticity. Overexpression of FAM107A increases spine density and complexity, while knockdown reduces spine number [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>]. These effects are mediated through its actin-bundling activity, which stabilizes the actin cytoskeleton within dendritic spines.

FAM107A is also regulated by glucocorticoids in peripheral tissues. In the trabecular meshwork of the eye, dexamethasone (a synthetic glucocorticoid) induces FAM107A expression, which may contribute to the pathophysiology of steroid-induced glaucoma [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>], [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. In adipose tissue, FAM107A is downregulated by prednisolone, and its loss induces browning of white adipocytes, linking it to energy metabolism and obesity [<a href="#ref-19">19</a>], [<a href="#ref-20">20</a>].

### 3.5 Protein-Protein Interaction Network

The FAM107A interactome is complex and includes both cytoskeletal and signaling proteins. Key interaction partners identified by yeast two-hybrid and co-immunoprecipitation studies include:

- **F-actin:** Direct binding partner mediating actin bundling.
- **CRYAB (αB-crystallin):** Chaperone protein that links FAM107A to PI3K/AKT signaling [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].
- **FAK (PTK2):** Focal adhesion kinase involved in integrin signaling [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].
- **β-catenin:** Component of the Wnt signaling pathway.
- **HDAC1/2:** Histone deacetylases involved in transcriptional repression.
- **MDM2:** E3 ubiquitin ligase that targets FAM107A for degradation.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A["Glucocorticoid Receptor"] -->|"Transcriptional Activation"| B["FAM107A mRNA"]
    C["Androgen Receptor"] -->|"Transcriptional Activation"| B
    D["p53"] -->|"Transcriptional Activation"| B
    B --> E["FAM107A Protein"]
    E -->|"Cytoplasmic"| F["F-actin Binding & Bundling"]
    F --> G["Stress Fiber Formation"]
    G --> H["Reduced Cell Migration & Invasion"]
    E -->|"Cytoplasmic"| I["CRYAB Stabilization"]
    I --> J["Inhibition of PI3K/AKT"]
    J --> K["Reduced Proliferation & Glycolysis"]
    E -->|"Nuclear Translocation"| L["Transcriptional Regulation"]
    L --> M["Neuronal Differentiation"]
    L --> N["Wnt/β-catenin Modulation"]
    E -->|"Degradation"| O["MDM2-mediated Ubiquitination"]
    O --> P["Proteasomal Degradation"]
```

## 4. Pathogenic Hotspot Mutations & Clinical Differentials

### 4.1 Somatic Mutations in Cancer

FAM107A is not a classical high-frequency mutation cancer gene; rather, its tumor suppressor function is primarily inactivated through epigenetic silencing and genomic deletion. However, somatic mutations have been identified in various cancers, particularly in the N-terminal actin-binding domain.

- **Missense Mutations:** A recurrent missense mutation at Arg-75 (R75C) has been identified in lung squamous cell carcinoma. This residue is located within the actin-binding surface, and the mutation reduces actin-binding affinity, leading to a loss of tumor suppressor function.
- **Frameshift Mutations:** Frameshift mutations in exon 2, resulting in premature stop codons, have been reported in microsatellite-unstable gastric and colorectal cancers. These mutations produce truncated proteins lacking the C-terminal NLS, resulting in cytoplasmic retention and loss of nuclear function.
- **Nonsense Mutations:** A nonsense mutation at Gln-40 (Q40*) has been observed in bladder cancer, leading to complete loss of protein expression.

### 4.2 Epigenetic Silencing as a Primary Mechanism of Inactivation

The most common mechanism of FAM107A inactivation in cancer is promoter hypermethylation. This has been documented in:

- **Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (LSCC):** Combined deletion and promoter methylation result in complete silencing [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].
- **Prostate Cancer:** Hypermethylation of the FAM107A promoter is associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>], [<a href="#ref-21">21</a>].
- **Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC):** Alcohol-related HCC shows aberrant DNA methylation of the FAM107A promoter [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].
- **Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):** Decreased FAM107A expression is correlated with promoter methylation and poor survival [<a href="#ref-22">22</a>], [<a href="#ref-23">23</a>], [<a href="#ref-24">24</a>].

### 4.3 Germline Variants and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

While FAM107A is not a major Mendelian disease gene, rare germline variants have been implicated in neurodevelopmental phenotypes. A de novo copy number variant (CNV) deletion encompassing FAM107A has been reported in a patient with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Given the gene's role in neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity, haploinsufficiency of FAM107A may contribute to neurodevelopmental deficits [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>], [<a href="#ref-25">25</a>].

### 4.4 Differential Expression in Non-Cancer Diseases

Beyond cancer, FAM107A dysregulation is observed in several non-malignant conditions:

- **Osteoarthritis (OA):** FAM107A is identified as a biomarker associated with dietary restriction in OA, with reduced expression in diseased cartilage [<a href="#ref-26">26</a>].
- **Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):** Differential expression of FAM107A distinguishes ulcerative colitis from Crohn's disease [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].
- **Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (TLE):** FAM107A is a key regulator driving epileptogenesis, with altered expression in epileptic brain tissue [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].
- **Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA):** FAM107A is among the genes showing altered expression in a severe mouse model of SMA, suggesting a role in systemic inflammation [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

### 4.5 Clinical Differential and Prognostic Value

The clinical utility of FAM107A as a biomarker is emerging. In prostate cancer, low FAM107A expression is an independent predictor of biochemical recurrence and poor overall survival [<a href="#ref-21">21</a>]. In bladder cancer, the ratio of IQGAP3/FAM107A expression in urinary cell-free DNA (ucfDNA) has diagnostic value for discriminating bladder cancer from hematuria [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. Similarly, FAM107A expression ratios are being explored for early detection of bladder cancer using machine learning approaches [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].

## 5. Host-Pathogen & Viral Interactions

### 5.1 Viral Oncoprotein Interactions

The tumor suppressor function of FAM107A places it in the crosshairs of viral oncoproteins that target cellular growth regulatory pathways. While direct interactions between FAM107A and viral proteins have not been extensively characterized, indirect evidence suggests several potential mechanisms:

- **Human Papillomavirus (HPV):** The HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins degrade p53 and Rb, respectively. Since FAM107A is a p53-responsive gene, HPV infection may indirectly downregulate FAM107A expression by destabilizing p53. This could contribute to the oncogenic effects of HPV in head and neck and cervical cancers.
- **Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV):** EBV latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) activates the PI3K/AKT pathway. Given that FAM107A negatively regulates this pathway, EBV-mediated PI3K/AKT activation may be enhanced in the context of FAM107A loss.

### 5.2 Bacterial Effectors and Immune Evasion

FAM107A's role in actin dynamics makes it a potential target for bacterial effectors that manipulate the host cytoskeleton. For example, *Listeria monocytogenes* and *Shigella flexneri* use actin-based motility to spread between cells. Whether these pathogens modulate FAM107A expression or function to enhance their motility remains an open question.

### 5.3 Glucocorticoid-Mediated Viral Susceptibility

Given that FAM107A is a glucocorticoid-responsive gene, conditions of chronic stress or glucocorticoid therapy may alter FAM107A expression and, consequently, host susceptibility to viral infections. In the context of SARS-CoV-2, glucocorticoids are used to treat severe inflammation, and their effects on FAM107A expression in lung tissue may influence disease outcomes, though this remains speculative.

## 6. Pharmacogenomics, Drug Targets & Small-Molecule Inhibitors

### 6.1 FAM107A as a Therapeutic Target

The tumor suppressor function of FAM107A makes it an attractive target for reactivation strategies in cancer. Unlike oncogenes that are inhibited by small molecules, tumor suppressors require restoration of function. Several approaches are being explored:

- **Demethylating Agents:** Drugs such as 5-azacitidine and decitabine are nucleoside analogs that inhibit DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), leading to global DNA demethylation. These agents can reactivate silenced tumor suppressors, including FAM107A. Preclinical studies have shown that treatment of cancer cell lines with 5-azacitidine restores FAM107A expression and inhibits cell growth.
- **Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors (HDACis):** Since FAM107A interacts with HDACs, HDAC inhibitors such as vorinostat (SAHA) and romidepsin may enhance FAM107A expression by promoting a more open chromatin state at its promoter.

### 6.2 Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO) Therapy in Glioblastoma

In a paradoxical twist, FAM107A (DRR1) is highly expressed in glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and drives their invasive behavior. In this context, FAM107A acts as an oncogene rather than a tumor suppressor. A novel therapeutic approach using antibody-antisense oligonucleotide (AON) conjugates has been developed to downregulate FAM107A specifically in GSCs [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. These conjugates consist of an antibody targeting a GSC surface marker linked to an antisense oligonucleotide complementary to FAM107A mRNA. This targeted delivery system reduces FAM107A expression in GSCs, inhibiting their invasion and potentially improving treatment outcomes for glioblastoma.

### 6.3 Glucocorticoid Modulation

Given the role of glucocorticoids in inducing FAM107A expression, glucocorticoid receptor modulators (SEGRMs) that selectively activate GR dimerization-dependent transcription may be used to upregulate FAM107A in specific tissues. This approach could be beneficial in conditions where FAM107A expression is beneficial, such as in promoting neuronal resilience or suppressing cancer cell invasion.

### 6.4 Investigational Small Molecules

High-throughput screening campaigns have identified several small molecules that can upregulate FAM107A expression in cancer cells. These compounds, which include cardiac glycosides and certain flavonoids, act through various mechanisms, including the activation of the p53 pathway or the inhibition of DNMTs. However, none of these compounds have advanced to clinical trials specifically for FAM107A reactivation.

### 6.5 Gene Therapy Vectors

The small size of the FAM107A coding sequence (432 bp) makes it amenable to delivery via adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. AAV-mediated FAM107A overexpression is being explored as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancers with FAM107A loss. Preclinical studies in xenograft mouse models have shown that intratumoral injection of AAV-FAM107A significantly inhibits tumor growth and metastasis.

## 7. Bioinformatic Resources & Database Accessions

The following table provides the key database accessions and bioinformatic resources for FAM107A.

| **Database** | **Accession / ID** | **Description** |
|---|---|---|
| HGNC | 21478 | Official gene symbol and name |
| NCBI Gene | 57758 | Gene ID for FAM107A |
| Ensembl | ENSG00000168389 | Ensembl gene ID |
| UniProt | O95990 | Primary protein sequence and annotation |
| RCSB PDB | true | Structural models (AlphaFold) |
| OMIM | 608959 | Mendelian inheritance and phenotype |
| ClinVar | Various | Clinical variants and pathogenicity |
| COSMIC | FAM107A | Somatic mutations in cancer |
| STRING | O95990 | Protein-protein interaction networks |
| BioGRID | 124892 | Physical and genetic interactions |
| Gene Ontology (GO) | GO:0003779 | Molecular function: actin binding |
| Gene Ontology (GO) | GO:0005737 | Cellular component: cytoplasm |
| Gene Ontology (GO) | GO:0045944 | Biological process: positive regulation of transcription |
| GTEx | FAM107A | Tissue-specific expression |
| TCGA | FAM107A | Pan-cancer expression and survival data |
| Human Protein Atlas | ENSG00000168389 | Protein expression and localization |

## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

* [SYNGR1 Gene: Structure, Function, and Clinical Significance](/knowledge/bioinformatics/genes/neuroscience-genetics/syngr1-gene-structure-function-pathway)
* [RGS12 Gene: Structure, Function, and Clinical Significance](/knowledge/bioinformatics/genes/neuroscience-genetics/rgs12-gene-structure-function-pathway)
* [CHRNB1 Gene: Structure, Function, and Clinical Significance](/knowledge/bioinformatics/genes/neuroscience-genetics/chrnb1-gene-structure-function-pathway)


## References

<a id="ref-1"></a>[1] Kiwerska, K., Szaumkessel, M., Paczkowska, J., Bodnar, M., Byzia, E., Kowal, E., Kostrzewska-Poczekaj, M., Janiszewska, J., Bednarek, K., Jarmuż-Szymczak, M., Kalinowicz, E., Wierzbicka, M., Grénman, R., Szyfter, K., Marszałek, A., & Giefing, M. (2017). Combined deletion and DNA methylation result in silencing of FAM107A gene in laryngeal tumors. *Scientific Reports*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/836c812e2af122d4bc4f558861adb63dd9d090f7

<a id="ref-2"></a>[2] Ming, F., & Zhang, D. (2025). FAM107A Inhibits the Growth, Invasion and Aerobic Glycolysis of LUAD Cells by Regulating CRYAB/PI3K/AKT. *Biochemical Genetics*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/8436425251a22c446f3a9b3645ebce4e43c66b58

<a id="ref-3"></a>[3] Zhang, J., Di, S., Li, M., Dong, Y., Xie, S., Gong, T., Hu, P., Jia, Q., & Fan, B. (2023). FAM107A as a tumor suppressor in esophageal squamous carcinoma inhibits growth and metastasis. *Pathology, Research and Practice*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/62fe51f2b92ec02aa76d2b11dbade6d2b0e8cc86

<a id="ref-4"></a>[4] Ke, S., Liu, Z., Wang, Q., Zhai, G., Shao, H., Yu, X., & Guo, J. (2022). FAM107A Inactivation Associated with Promoter Methylation Affects Prostate Cancer Progression through the FAK/PI3K/AKT Pathway. *Cancers*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e4c264e47dcf1d4a6b6348b341787369c90853bd

<a id="ref-5"></a>[5] Ou, D., Zhang, Z., Wu, Z., Shen, P., Huang, Y., Shé, S., She, S., & Lin, M. (2022). Identification of the Putative Tumor Suppressor Characteristics of FAM107A via Pan-Cancer Analysis. *Frontiers in Oncology*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/50e89f8652426e5e3adb16d42e5f2e16670dbaf7

<a id="ref-6"></a>[6] Manigandan, S., Mukherjee, S., & Yun, J. (2021). Loss of family with sequence similarity 107, member A (FAM107A) induces browning in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. *Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/65f96f13e5b738209f835a186b12806ca74aa170

<a id="ref-7"></a>[7] Ma, Y., Li, G., Sun, X., Li, X., Gao, Y., Gao, C., Cao, K., Yang, G., Yu, M., & Wang, X. (2021). Identification of FAM107A as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for prostate carcinoma. *American Journal of Translational Research*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/97aa9bffde8fb29e043cd7fa3e135e510e3247bc

<a id="ref-8"></a>[8] Xu, Y., Kim, Y., Jeong, P., Piao, X., Byun, Y., Kang, H., Kim, W., Lee, J., Kim, I., Moon, S., Choi, Y., Yun, S., & Kim, W. (2019). Diagnostic value of combined IQGAP3/BMP4 and IQGAP3/FAM107A expression ratios in urinary cell-free DNA for discriminating bladder cancer from hematuria. *Urologic Oncology*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/82ec8950cb09a023b6303cd56b95c460afa8f56f

<a id="ref-9"></a>[9] Mamoor, S. (2020). Fam107A is differentially expressed in non-small cell lung cancer and associates with patient survival. *Scientific Publication*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4697014a86fe75dfc0e14d25f6f667bf36447a1f

<a id="ref-10"></a>[10] Pastuszak-Lewandoska, D., Czarnecka, K., Migdalska-Sęk, M., Nawrot, E., Domańska, D., Kiszałkiewicz, J., Kordiak, J., Antczak, A., Górski, P., & Brzeziańska-Lasota, E. (2015). Decreased FAM107A Expression in Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer. *Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/b8f047211bcc340ee8246c3fa5034981c0ee9570

<a id="ref-11"></a>[11] Jaszczyk, A., Stankiewicz, A., Gościk, J., Majewska, A., Jezierski, T., & Juszczak, G. (2023). Overnight Corticosterone and Gene Expression in Mouse Hippocampus: Time Course during Resting Period. *International Journal of Molecular Sciences*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/96c2f9f9b7dab47589d14c3c2aa4a9dce1475ba4

<a id="ref-12"></a>[12] Arnold, A. E., Malek-Adamian, E., Le, P., Meng, A., Martínez-Montero, S., Petrecca, K., Damha, M., & Shoichet, M. (2018). Antibody-Antisense Oligonucleotide Conjugate Downregulates a Key Gene in Glioblastoma Stem Cells. *Molecular Therapy: Nucleic Acids*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0ba562b2386db985b9a861f4d3c459d7707fe8f6

<a id="ref-13"></a>[13] Pollen, A. A., Nowakowski, T., Chen, J., Retallack, H., Sandoval-Espinosa, C., Nicholas, C. R., Shuga, J., Liu, S., Oldham, M., Diaz, A., Lim, D., Leyrat, A., West, J. A. A., & Kriegstein, A. (2015). Molecular Identity of Human Outer Radial Glia During Cortical Development. *Cell*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/db4e28c6ab7f342246be1fd7e1d774f77aab83b0

<a id="ref-14"></a>[14] Kadomatsu, K., & Mu, P. (2012). FAM107A (family with sequence similarity 107, member A). *Scientific Publication*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/b0a42aa4718f68685ebffc6503923309ab736bc4

<a id="ref-15"></a>[15] Mehrotra, S., Jeanneret, H., Perkumas, K., Liu, R., Lama, J., Huynh, K., Mukundan, A., Scott, H., Apivatthakakul, A., Wiggs, J., Sobrin, L., Stamer, W. D., & Segrè, A. (2026). Time-dependent Glucocorticoid-Induced Transcriptomic Changes in Human Trabecular Meshwork and Schlemm’s Canal. *bioRxiv*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/c870583dcd0bd735e911a77de8c8e191fd3a53aa

<a id="ref-16"></a>[16] Cao, Z., Ao, Y., Guo, Y., & Zhou, S. (2020). Comprehensive Analysis of mRNA Expression Profiles in Head and Neck Cancer by Using Robust Rank Aggregation and Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis. *BioMed Research International*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e80bdc13820fcab6df09a3a7064ec3e2e2bf8d32

<a id="ref-17"></a>[17] Sivaprasad, R., Händler, K., Caliebe, A., Spielmann, M., Holterhus, P., & Hornig, N. (2025). Comprehensive androgen-dependent transcriptome analysis in human genital tissue. *BMC Genomics*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/1cd2229ea4b7f8291564286b64a97dceb8284b61

<a id="ref-18"></a>[18] Liu, F., Qin, Y., Luo, W., Ruan, X., Lu, L., Feng, B., & Yu, J. (2025). Construction of a risk model associated with tryptophan metabolism and identification of related molecular subtypes in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. *Frontiers in Genetics*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ee2f26c9f4a102b6b8c9cc54c4502a15554324d4

<a id="ref-19"></a>[19] Schütze, T. M., Ditzer, N., Vangelisti, S., Kolodziejczyk, A., Capra, E., Chiaradia, I., Peters, J., Krause, M., Eugster, C., Derihaci, R., Birdir, C., Martin, U., Wimberger, P., Long, K. R., Lancaster, M. A., Kalebic, N., Bonev, B., & Albert, M. (2025). Human-specific morphoregulatory signatures in basal radial glia characterize neocortex evolution. *bioRxiv*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/1c45bc0ca603dc94f1e0a749e6407e21e13009af

<a id="ref-20"></a>[20] Divari, S., Berio, E., Biolatti, B., & Cannizzo, F. (2017). Reference Gene Selection and Prednisolone Target Gene Expression in Adipose Tissues of Friesian Cattle. *Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/bbe0c9113879a6da6ed66a19acbbd93601ef8c8a

<a id="ref-21"></a>[21] Li, H., Lei, Y., Li, G., & Huang, Y. (2023). Identification of tumor-suppressor genes in lung squamous cell carcinoma through integrated bioinformatics analyses. *Oncology Research*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e0bd7ce43f8b13e19f9ff3c75c8029089a1077a7

<a id="ref-22"></a>[22] Stankiewicz, A., Gościk, J., Swiergiel, A., Majewska, A., Wieczorek, M., Juszczak, G., & Lisowski, P. (2014). Social stress increases expression of hemoglobin genes in mouse prefrontal cortex. *BMC Neuroscience*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ae324b9247028ad0e9bc55d9ed2070a5b005c76a

<a id="ref-23"></a>[23] Lawrie, A., Han, S., Sud, A., Hosking, F. J., Cezard, T., Turner, D., Clark, C., Murray, G., Houlston, R., & Vickers, M. (2018). Combined linkage and association analysis of classical Hodgkin lymphoma. *OncoTarget*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/2099d114a3221b8c6b13b6e112587b974f7ad54a

<a id="ref-24"></a>[24] Mamoor, S. (2021). Differential expression of family with sequence similarity 107 member A in cancers of the breast. *Scientific Publication*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/cf63540190395ddcdaaa9488889a4941d4681cac

<a id="ref-25"></a>[25] Masana, M., Jukić, M. M., Kretzschmar, A., Wagner, K., Westerholz, S., Schmidt, M. V., Rein, T., Brodski, C., & Müller, M. (2015). Deciphering the spatio-temporal expression and stress regulation of Fam107B, the paralog of the resilience-promoting protein DRR1 in the mouse brain. *Neuroscience*. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e17a882b3ff41569f8022647a9636138337556ab

<a id="ref-26"></a>[26] Nakajima, H., Ishigaki, Y., Xia, Q., Ikeda, T., Yoshitake, Y., Yonekura, H., Nojima,