The protein encoded by TIAL1 is a member of a family of RNA-binding proteins and possesses nucleolytic activity against cytotoxic lymphocyte target cells. The gene product is a cytotoxic granule-associated protein and has been shown to bind specifically to poly(A) homopolymers and to fragment DNA in permeabilized target cells. It has been suggested that members of this protein family may be involved in the induction of apoptosis. One isoform contains a lysosome-targeting motif in its C-terminal auxiliary domain; however, alternative splicing results in a T-cluster DNA-binding isoform, differing at the C-terminus where a hydrophobic sequence replaces the lysosome-targeting motif.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.