Proteomic Methodologies to Study Transcription Factor Function

Transcription factors regulate transcription by binding to regulatory regions of genes including the promoter. Few of the transcription factors are well characterized, and few promoters have been described in detail. New methods have been developed to improve both transcription factor and promoter characterization, some of which are discussed here. Trapping methodology applicable to both individual transcription factors and intact transcription complexes are described, as well as 2D gel electrophoresis, Southwestern blotting, and basic liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry methodology. These methods have proved useful in the study of transcriptional regulation.