CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) is a cellular transcription factor. It binds to certain DNA sequences called cAMP response elements (CRE), thereby increasing or decreasing the transcription of the downstream genes. CREB was first described in 1987 as a cAMP-responsive transcription factor regulating the somatostatin gene.
Genes whose transcription is regulated by CREB include: c-fos, the neurotrophin BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor), tyrosine hydroxylase, and many neuropeptides (such as somatostatin, enkephalin, VGF, and corticotropin-releasing hormone).
CREB is closely related in structure and function to CREM (cAMP response element modulator) and ATF-1 (activating transcription factor-1) proteins. CREB proteins are expressed in many animals, including humans. CREB is a transcription factor that has been shown to be integral in the formation of spatial memory. In recent experiments it has been demonstrated that CREB may possess therapeutic potential for patients that have Alzheimer's Disease.
CREB has a well-documented role in neuronal plasticity and long-term memory formation in the brain.
Read more about CREB: Subtypes, Mechanism of Action, Function, Disease Linkage, CAMP Response Element