Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) mRNA (KLF4 mRNA)

Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) mRNA encodes a zinc-finger transcription factor that is essential for regulating cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis (UniProt P51768). It is famously known as one of the four Yamanaka factors (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc) used to reprogram somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (Takahashi & Yamanaka, 2006). In oncology, KLF4 mRNA expression is context-dependent, acting as a tumor suppressor in colorectal and gastric cancers while potentially functioning as an oncogene in breast and skin cancers (PubMed 28651078). Therapeutic strategies involving KLF4 mRNA include the use of small molecules like APTO-253 to induce its expression for treating acute myeloid leukemia (Aptose Biosciences, 2021). Additionally, experimental approaches utilize modified mRNA (modRNA) for regenerative medicine, specifically targeting heart and skin repair by transiently expressing the KLF4 protein (Nature Communications, 2013). However, the use of KLF4 as a therapeutic target or agent is complicated by its ability to promote cell survival and its potential for inducing unwanted pluripotency or oncogenesis in certain tissues.

Other names

Gut-enriched Kruppel-like factorEpithelial zinc finger protein EZFGKLFEZF

Induction of KLF4 expression via small molecules, gene silencing via RNA interference (siRNA), or exogenous protein expression via modified mRNA (modRNA) delivery.