Early B cell factor 4 (EBF4)

Early B cell factor 4 (EBF4) is a member of the EBF family of helix-loop-helix transcription factors, expressed in human—but not mouse—immune cells[1][2][5]. EBF4 binds the motif 5′-CCCNNGG/AG-3′ in the regulatory elements of target immunoregulatory genes and plays a modulatory role in Fas-induced apoptosis by influencing c-FLIP turnover[1][5]. EBF4 regulates the transcription of genes crucial for the development and cytotoxic function of human CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, most notably those encoding granzyme, perforin, TBX21, and EOMES[1]. Its expression is rapidly downregulated following T cell receptor or NKG2D stimulation, suggesting a role in limiting the intensity or duration of cytolytic responses in the immune system[1]. While EBF4 is not currently established as a direct therapeutic target or receptor, its regulatory influence on apoptosis and cytotoxic cellular mechanisms points to its potential relevance in cancer biology and immune regulation[1]. Structurally, like other EBF family members, it contains a DNA binding domain with a zinc knuckle, an IPT/TIG domain, and a non-canonical HLH motif, enabling DNA binding, dimerization, and protein-protein interactions[2].

Other names

Transcription factor COE4COE4KIAA1442EBF-4O/E-4OE-4RP5-860F19.3Olf-1/EBF-like 4