GTPase deficient mutant of Gα13 regulates the expression of Egr-1 through the small GTPase Rho

Abstract
The α-subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein G13 regulate cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis in different cell types. Expression of the constitutively activated mutant of Gα13 (Gα13QL) increases the expression of Egr-1, an immediate-early response gene that is identified to be involved in cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Here we report that Gα13QL activates the promoter of Egr-1 through specific sequence which includes the characteristic CArG boxes. We also demonstrate that the Gα13QL activation of Egr-1 promoter is mediated by the Ras-like small GTPase Rho.