BBX (HMG box transcription factor BBX, Bobby sox homolog, HMG box-containing protein 2) is a 941 amino acid protein encoded by the human gene BBX. BBX is a nuclear protein that contains one high mobility group (HMG) domain that belongs to the Sox (Sry-related HMG box) family of transcription factors. HMG proteins are thought to play a significant role in various human disorders. Disruptions and rearrangements in the genes coding for some of the HMG proteins are associated with common benign tumors. Commonly, antibodies against HMG proteins are found in patients suffering from autoimmune diseases. The SRY gene on the Y Chromosome, responsible for male sexual differentiation, contains a HMG-Box domain. Some HMG proteins have demonstrated extracellular activity as a chemokine, attracting neutrophils and mononuclear inflammatory cells to the infected sites. BBX functions as a transcription factor that is necessary for cell cycle progression from G1?to S phase.
