Core histones package the genome into nucleosomes and control its accessibility to transcription factors. High mobility group proteins (HMGs) are, after histones, the second most abundant chromatin proteins and exert global genomic functions in establishing active or inactive chromatin domains.

They also specifically control the expression of a limited number of genes. They contribute to the fine tuning of transcription in response to rapid environmental changes. They interact with nucleosomes, transcription factors, nucleosome-remodelling machines, and with histone H1.

Members

Pathology

 HMGs genes form fusion genes in human tumors
 HMGA2: Constitutional rearrangement of HMGA2 in a phenotype including overgrowth and lipomas

References

 Bianchi ME, Agresti A. HMG proteins: dynamic players in gene regulation and differentiation. Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2005 Oct;15(5):496-506. PMID: #16102963#