Ikaros Family Zinc Finger Protein IKZF1 (IKZF1)

Ikaros family zinc finger protein 1 (IKZF1), also known as Ikaros, is a DNA-binding transcription factor. It is a member of the Ikaros family of zinc finger proteins, which are essential regulators of hematopoietic cell development and immune system function. Ikaros plays a critical role in lymphocyte development, immune regulation, and acts both as a transcriptional activator or repressor depending on context.

Other names

IkarosLYF1

Ikaros binds directly to specific DNA motifs through its N-terminal zinc fingers. Its C-terminal domain enables dimerization—either homodimers with itself or heterodimers with other Ikzf proteins—which is crucial for stable chromatin association and effective transcriptional control over target genes involved in hematopoiesis.