Leucine zipper transcription factor-like protein 1 (LZTFL1)

Leucine zipper transcription factor-like protein 1 (LZTFL1) is a cytoplasmic and ciliary protein encoded by the *LZTFL1* gene, ubiquitously expressed in human tissues. LZTFL1 interacts with Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) proteins and regulates protein trafficking to the ciliary membrane by binding partner proteins and adaptor complexes, notably AP-1 and AP-2. It acts as a tumor suppressor through control of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and maintains epithelial cell differentiation—loss of its activity is associated with increased cancer risk and metastasis. Mutations in LZTFL1 cause Bardet-Biedl syndrome type 17, manifested by obesity, polydactyly, diabetes, kidney failure, and retinal degeneration. LZTFL1 is also linked to genetic susceptibility for severe COVID-19 via chromosome 3p21.31. The protein is not a classical DNA-binding transcription factor but rather mediates protein–protein biogenesis, ciliary transport, and cell signaling, with emerging but as yet unexploited therapeutic relevance.

Other names

LZTFL1BBS17Leucine zipper transcription factor like 1Leucine zipper transcription factor-like protein 1

Modulating ciliary protein trafficking or restoring BBSome function for ciliopathies. Enhancing tumor suppressor activity or EMT inhibition for cancer therapy. Regulating smoothened (SMO), HH signaling, or associated protein complexes in ciliary disease.