Zinc finger protein 648 (ZNF648)

Zinc finger protein 648 is a nuclear DNA-binding transcription factor characterized by a C-terminal domain containing tandem C2H2 zinc fingers, with at least six highly conserved across vertebrate evolution[1][2]. It lacks the typical KRAB, BTB/POZ, or SCAN domains common in other zinc finger proteins and shows exclusive nuclear localization[2][3]. ZNF648 is specifically required for erythroid and megakaryocyte differentiation, with loss leading to disrupted cell lineage commitment and cell death[1][2]. Expression is highest in megakaryocytes, but also found in erythroid cells, hematopoietic stem cells, monocytes, CD8+ T cells, and some non-hematopoietic tissues[2]. The gene is conserved across vertebrates from bony fish to mammals, and its molecular architecture facilitates high-affinity DNA binding, likely regulating specific transcriptional programs in blood cell development[1][2][4]. Its broader cellular expression suggests additional regulatory roles beyond hematopoiesis, but no drugs are known to target this factor and it is not established as a therapeutic target.

Other names

ZNF648Zinc finger protein 648FLJ46813ZN648_HUMAN (UniProt)