Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5)

Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) is a member of the Krüppel-like factor family of zinc finger transcription factors that bind GC-rich DNA sequences and regulate the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and development[1][2][3]. Highly expressed in proliferating epithelial cells, particularly in the intestine, KLF5 plays critical roles in promoting cell growth, especially in response to mitogenic stimuli such as serum or oncogenic Ras signals[3]. KLF5 activity is regulated by post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, and it can act in coordination with cofactors like CREB-binding protein (CBP)[1]. KLF5 expression is crucial for embryonic development, as homozygous knockout mice are embryonic lethal[1]. In cancer biology, KLF5 is generally regarded as a pro-proliferative factor and can exhibit oncogenic properties, though its effects may vary by tissue and context. Inhibition of KLF5 can suppress cell proliferation in some settings, and overexpression of KLF5 is associated with various cancers. Its dual regulatory capacity allows it to either activate or repress gene transcription depending on promoter context and cellular environment[1][2][3].

Other names

Intestinal-enriched Krüppel-like factor (IKLF)Basic transcription element binding protein 2 (Bteb2)

Inhibition of cell proliferation via suppression of KLF5, modulation of transcription, involvement in downstream pathways regulating cyclin D1 and other growth regulators[3]