Skip to main content

DNA-Binding Domain

Meaning

The DNA-Binding Domain (DBD) is a specific, highly conserved region of a nuclear receptor protein, such as the androgen or estrogen receptor, that is structurally engineered to recognize and physically attach to a corresponding hormone response element (HRE) sequence on the cell’s DNA. This domain acts as the molecular key that allows the hormone-receptor complex to dock onto the genome, initiating the transcription of specific target genes. The integrity and function of the DBD are essential for all genomic actions of steroid and thyroid hormones.