KLF4

KLF4

Symbol	KLF4
HGNC ID	6348
Alternative symbols	–
Entrez Gene	9314
OMIM	602253
RefSeq	NM_004235
UniProt	O43474
Chromosome	9q31
Locus supplementary data	–

KLF4 (Kruppel-like factor 4) is a transcription factor that plays a critical role in regulating cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. It is a member of the Kruppel-like factor family of transcription factors, which are characterized by their zinc finger domains.

Function

KLF4 is involved in the regulation of gene expression in various biological processes. It is known to act as both a transcriptional activator and repressor, depending on the context of the target gene and the presence of other cofactors. KLF4 is crucial in maintaining stem cell pluripotency and is one of the four factors used to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

Role in Development

During embryonic development, KLF4 is essential for the proper formation of the skin and gastrointestinal tract. It regulates the expression of genes involved in epithelial cell differentiation and barrier function.

Clinical Significance

KLF4 has been implicated in various cancers, including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and gastric cancer. Its role in cancer is complex, as it can function as either a tumor suppressor or an oncogene depending on the cellular context. In some cancers, KLF4 expression is downregulated, leading to increased cell proliferation and tumor progression. In others, overexpression of KLF4 can contribute to tumorigenesis.

Research and Applications

KLF4 is a subject of extensive research due to its role in stem cell biology and cancer. Understanding the mechanisms by which KLF4 regulates gene expression and cell fate decisions is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies for regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.

See Also

• Transcription factor
• Stem cell
• Induced pluripotent stem cell
• Cancer

References

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External Links

• [KLF4 at GeneCards](https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=KLF4)
• [KLF4 at NCBI Gene](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/9314)