DEAD box proteins, characterized by the conserved motif Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp (DEAD), are putative RNA helicases. They are implicated in a number ofcellular processes involving alteration of RNA secondary structure such as translation initiation, nuclear and mitochondrial splicing, andspliceosome assembly. Based on their distribution patterns, some members of this family are believed to be involved in embryogenesis, spermatogenesis, and cellular growth and division. encodes a DEAD box protein, interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1, that is upregulated in response to treatment withbeta-interferon and a protein kinase C-activating compound, mezerein. Irreversible reprogramming of melanomas can be achieved by treatment both these agents; treatment with either agent alone only achieves reversible differentiation. variation in this gene is associated with diabetes mellitus insulin-dependent type 19.

IFIH1; MDA5; RH116; Interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1; Clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis autoantigen 140 kDa; CADM-140 autoantigen; Helicase with 2 CARD domains; Helicard.