Abstract
Bach 2 is an oxidative stress-regulated transcription factor and functions as a repressor of gene expression directed by the TPA-response element, the Maf recognition element, and the antioxidant responsive element. To investigate the possibility that these enhancers are regulated in a tissue-specific manner, we analyzed expression of Bach 2 during differentiation of neural cells. Bach 2 was induced upon neuronal differentiation of P 19 embryonic carcinoma cells, while its related factor Bachl did not show significant change. By using affinity-purified anti-Bach 2 antibodies, expression of Bach 2 in mouse embryos was determined. High levels of Bach 2 antigen were found in differentiating neuronal and lens cells in day 12.5 embryos. Consistent with the fact that subcellular localization of Bach 2 is regulated by nuclear export in cultured cells, extensive Bach 2-staining was found in the cytoplasmic regions of developing neuronal and lens cells. These results suggest that Bach 2 regulates AP-1- and Maf-dependent gene expression during development of neuronal and lens cells and that its activity may be regulated by nuclear export in these cells.
