Transcription factor MafF (Maff)

Since they lack a putative transactivation domain, the tiny Mafs act as transcriptional repressors when they dimerize among themselves. However, they seem to function as transcriptional activators by dimerizing with other (usually larger) basic-zipper proteins, such as NFE2L1/NRF1, and recruiting them to specific DNA-binding websites.

Interacts with the upstream promoter region of the oxytocin receptor gene. May be a transcriptional enhancer in the up-regulation of the oxytocin receptor gene at parturition.