HMGA Family Gene

**Semantic type:** Gene or Genome

**Definition:** Human HMGA Family Genes encode HMGA proteins that participate in many nuclear processes ranging from chromosome and chromatin mechanics to transcription factors that regulate gene expression. Hence, they influence diverse biological processes including cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and death. HMGA proteins contain three AT-hooks that bind to minor groove AT-rich stretches. HMGA proto-oncogenes promote tumor progression and metastasis when overexpressed. High constitutive HMGA expression is consistently observed in cancers, with increasing concentrations being correlated with increasing malignancy. (NCI)

**Synonyms:** - High Mobility Group A Gene Family