Krueppel-like factor 6 (KLF6)

Krueppel-like factor 6 (KLF6) is a ubiquitously expressed zinc finger transcription factor belonging to the Sp/KLF family, defined by three C2H2-type zinc finger motifs that bind GC-rich promoter elements and regulate gene transcription. KLF6 is involved in key cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and inflammation. It acts as a tumor suppressor in various tissues and has a complex role modulating tissue integrity, inflammation, and metabolic pathways. Dysregulation—by mutation, alternative splicing, or altered expression—contributes to cancer progression, fibrosis, and other pathologies. KLF6 has distinct transcript and protein isoforms with context-dependent effects: the full-length form is generally suppressive, while some spliced variants can enhance tumorigenicity[1][3][4][5]. KLF6’s regulation is dynamic, subject to cell signaling, epigenetic, and post-translational modifications. Therapeutic targeting remains challenging due to isoform diversity, tissue specificity, and broad roles in fundamental cell biology[1][3][4][5].

Other names

B-cell-derived protein 1Core promoter element-binding proteinGC-rich sites-binding factor GBFProto-oncogene BCD1Suppressor of tumorigenicity 12 proteinTranscription factor Zf9GC-rich binding factorCOPEBCPBPST12GBFPAC1CBA1ZF9Kruppel-like zinc finger protein Zf9Suppression of tumorigenicity 12 (prostate)

Tumor suppression via upregulation of cell cycle inhibitors (p21) and activation of apoptotic mediators (ATF3). Regulation of lipid metabolism through transcriptional activation of PDGFB and downstream signaling to SREBF1/SREBF2/mTOR. Modulation of inflammation and fibrosis through TGFβ signaling axis and post-translational modification, especially phosphorylation.