KLF4 Genome: A double edged sword

Abstract

Kruppel like factor 4 (KLF4), member of SP1/KLF transcription factor family is characterized by three extremely conserved C2H2-type zinc-finger motifs at its carboxyl boundary that are crucial for its interaction with target DNA. Participation of KLF4 in the control of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis are suggestive for KLF4 critical role in tumorigenesis. Depending on the genetic and cellular context, KLF4 gene acts as both oncogene and tumor-suppressor. KLF4 is a significant regulator in reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotent cells that can give rise to all of the cell types that make up the body. Multiple in vitro and in vivo studies have shown inhibitory role of KLF4 in epithelialmesenchymal transition (EMT) in various cancer types and loss of KLF4 expression during EMT significantly correlates with tumor angiogenesis, metastasis and aggressiveness. The manuscript updates the interrelationship that exists between epigenomic regulation of KLF4, its effector genes and oncogenic transformation.