Overview:

CREB1 is a member of the cAMP responsive element binding protein family of transcription factors that are critical mediators of gene expression in response to extracellular signals and are essential regulators of adaptive behavior and long-term memory formation (1). Activation of CREB1 by protein kinase A-mediated phosphorylation has been implicated in the survival of mammalian cells. Mice lacking CREB in the central nervous system during development show extensive apoptosis of postmitotic neurons (2). CREB binds as homo- and heterodimers to promoters containing CRE and activator protein 1 (AP-1) sites to alter target-gene expression).

References:

1. Valverde, O. et al: Modulation of anxiety-like behavior and morphine dependence in CREB-deficient mice. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2004 Jun; 29(6): 1122-33.

2. Mantamadiotis, T. et al: Disruption of CREB function in brain leads to neurodegeneration. Nat Genet. 2002 May; 31(1): 47-54.