Kruppel-Like Factor 12 Human Recombinant
Kruppel-Like Factor 3 Human Recombinant
Kruppel-Like Factor 4 Human Recombinant
Kruppel-Like Factor 4 Human Recombinant, His Tag
Kruppel-Like Factor 6 Human Recombinant
Kruppel-Like Factor 7 Human Recombinant
Kruppel-Like Factors (KLFs) are a family of zinc finger transcription factors that play crucial roles in various cellular processes. They are named after the Drosophila gene “Kruppel,” which means “cripple” in German, due to the severe developmental defects observed in mutants. KLFs are characterized by their three C2H2 zinc finger motifs at the C-terminus, which enable them to bind to GC-rich regions in DNA. There are 17 known KLFs in mammals, each with distinct and overlapping functions.
Key Biological Properties: KLFs are involved in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, development, and apoptosis. They function as transcriptional activators or repressors depending on the context.
Expression Patterns: KLFs exhibit diverse expression patterns across different tissues and developmental stages. For instance, KLF4 is highly expressed in the skin and gastrointestinal tract, while KLF2 is predominantly found in the vascular endothelium.
Tissue Distribution: The distribution of KLFs varies widely. KLF1 is primarily expressed in erythroid cells, KLF5 in the cardiovascular system, and KLF6 in the liver and prostate.
Primary Biological Functions: KLFs regulate gene expression by binding to specific DNA sequences. They are involved in various biological processes, including cell cycle regulation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
Role in Immune Responses: KLFs play significant roles in the immune system. For example, KLF2 is essential for T-cell trafficking and homeostasis, while KLF4 is involved in macrophage polarization and inflammatory responses.
Pathogen Recognition: KLFs can influence the expression of genes involved in pathogen recognition and immune responses. KLF4, for instance, modulates the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in macrophages.
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: KLFs interact with various proteins, including co-activators, co-repressors, and other transcription factors, to regulate gene expression. These interactions can modulate the transcriptional activity of KLFs.
Binding Partners: KLFs bind to GC-rich regions in the promoter regions of target genes. They can also interact with other transcription factors, such as Sp1, to regulate gene expression synergistically.
Downstream Signaling Cascades: KLFs can influence various signaling pathways. For example, KLF4 can activate the Notch signaling pathway, which is crucial for cell differentiation and development.
Regulatory Mechanisms that Control Expression and Activity: The expression and activity of KLFs are tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational modifications.
Transcriptional Regulation: KLFs can be regulated by other transcription factors, such as p53 and NF-κB. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, can influence KLF expression.
Post-Translational Modifications: KLFs undergo various post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, which can affect their stability, localization, and activity.
Biomedical Research: KLFs are valuable tools in biomedical research due to their roles in regulating gene expression and cellular processes. They are studied in various contexts, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and stem cell biology.
Diagnostic Tools: KLFs can serve as biomarkers for certain diseases. For example, KLF4 is a potential biomarker for colorectal cancer, while KLF6 is associated with prostate cancer.
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting KLFs holds promise for developing novel therapeutic strategies. Modulating KLF activity could potentially treat diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory disorders.
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: KLFs play critical roles throughout the life cycle, from development to aging and disease. During embryonic development, KLFs are involved in cell differentiation and organogenesis. In adults, they regulate tissue homeostasis and repair.
From Development to Aging and Disease: Dysregulation of KLFs is associated with various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the roles of KLFs in these processes can provide insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.