KLF9

Krueppel-like factor 9 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KLF9 gene. Previously known as Basic Transcription Element Binding Protein 1 (BTEB Protein 1), Klf9 is part of the Sp1 C2H2-type zinc finger family of transcription factors. Several previous studies showed Klf9-related regulation of animal development, including cell differentiation of B cells, keratinocytes, and neurons. Klf9 is also a key transcriptional regulator for uterine endometrial cell proliferation, adhesion, and differentiation, all factors that are essential during the process of pregnancy and are turned off during tumorigenesis.

Function

The protein encoded by this gene is a transcription factor that binds to GC box elements located in the promoter. Binding of the encoded protein to a single GC box inhibits mRNA expression while binding to tandemly repeated GC box elements activates transcription.

Oxidative stress increases expression of Klf9 and overexpression of Klf9 gene sensitizes the cell to oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. ,