A functional screen for Krüppel-like factors that regulate the human γ-globin gene through the CACCC promoter element

Krüppel-like Factor-9 and Krüppel-like Factor-13: Highly Related, Multi-Functional, Transcriptional Repressors and Activators of Oncogenesis

Specificity Proteins/Krüppel-like Factors (SP/KLF family) are a conserved family of transcriptional regulators. These proteins share three highly conserved, contiguous zinc fingers in their carboxy-terminus, requisite for binding to cis elements in DNA. Each SP/KLF protein has unique primary sequence within its amino-terminal and carboxy-terminal regions, and it is these regions which interact with co-activators, co-repressors, and chromatin-modifying proteins to support the transcriptional activation and repression of target genes. Krüppel-like Factor 9 (KLF9) and Krüppel-like Factor 13 (KLF13) are two of the smallest members of the SP/KLF family, are paralogous, emerged early in metazoan evolution, and are highly conserved. Paradoxically, while most similar in primary sequence, KLF9 and KLF13 display many distinct roles in target cells. In this article, we summarize the work that has identified the roles of KLF9 (and to a lesser degree KLF13) in tumor suppression or promotion via unique effects on differentiation, pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and tumor immune cell infiltration. We also highlight the great diversity of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circular RNAs which provide mechanisms for the ubiquitous tumor-specific suppression of KLF9 mRNA and protein. Elucidation of KLF9 and KLF13 in cancer biology is likely to provide new inroads to the understanding of oncogenesis and its prevention and treatments.

Regulation of arsenic methylation: identification of the transcriptional region of the human AS3MT gene

The human enzyme As(III) S-adenosylmethionine methyltransferase (AS3MT) catalyzes arsenic biotransformations and is considered to contribute to arsenic-related diseases. AS3MT is expressed in various tissues and cell types including liver, brain, adrenal gland, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells but not in human keratinocytes, urothelial, or brain microvascular endothelial cells. This indicates that AS3MT expression is regulated in a tissue/cell type-specific manner, but the mechanism of transcriptional regulation of expression of the AS3MT gene is not known. In this study, we define the DNA sequence of the core promoter region of the human AS3MT gene. We identify a GC box in the promoter to which the stress-related transcription factor Sp1 binds, indicating involvement of regulatory elements in AS3MT gene expression.

The expanding roles of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1)

The nitric oxide synthases (NOS; EC 1.14.13.39) use L-arginine as a substrate to produce nitric oxide (NO) as a by-product in the tissue microenvironment. NOS1 represents the predominant NO-producing enzyme highly enriched in the brain and known to mediate multiple functions, ranging from learning and memory development to maintaining synaptic plasticity and neuronal development, Alzheimer's disease (AD), psychiatric disorders and behavioral deficits. However, accumulating evidence indicate both canonical and non-canonical roles of NOS1-derived NO in several other tissues and chronic diseases. A better understanding of NOS1-derived NO signaling, and identification and characterization of NO-metabolites in non-neuronal tissues could become useful in diagnosis and prognosis of diseases associated with NOS1 expression. Continued investigation on the roles of NOS1, therefore, will synthesize new knowledge and aid in the discovery of small molecules which could be used to titrate the activities of NOS1-derived NO signaling and NO-metabolites. Here, we address the significance of NOS1 and its byproduct NO in modifying pathophysiological events, which could be beneficial in understanding both the disease mechanisms and therapeutics.

ISG15 is downregulated by KLF12 and implicated in maintenance of cancer stem cell-like features in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer

Drug resistance is often developed during clinical chemotherapy of ovarian cancers. The ubiquitin‐like protein interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) is possibly dependent on tumour context to promote or suppress progression of various tumours. The ubiquitin‐like protein interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) was decreased in cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer cells. The current study identified that both ectopic wild type and nonISGylatable mutant ISG15 expression inhibited CSC‐like phenotypes of cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, ectopic ISG15 expression suppressed tumour formation in nude mice. In addition, ISG15 downregulation promoted CSC‐like features of cisplatin‐sensitive ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, low ISG15 expression was associated with poor prognosis in patients with ovarian cancer. Transcriptional repressor Krüppel‐like factor 12 (KLF12) downregulated ISG15 in cisplatin‐resistant cells. Our data indicated that downregulating ISG15 expression, via weakening effect of KLF12, might be considered as new therapeutic strategy to inhibit CSC phenotypes in the treatment of cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer.

Hemoglobin switching in mice carrying the Klf1Nan variant

Haploinsufficiency for transcription factor KLF1 causes a variety of human erythroid phenotypes, such as the In(Lu) blood type, increased HbA2 levels, and hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin. Severe dominant congenital dyserythropoietic anemia IV (OMIM 613673) is associated with the KLF1 p.E325K variant. CDA-IV patients display ineffective erythropoiesis and hemolysis resulting in anemia, accompanied by persistent high levels of embryonic and fetal hemoglobin. The mouse Nan strain carries a variant in the orthologous residue, KLF1 p.E339D. Klf1Nan causes dominant hemolytic anemia with many similarities to CDA-IV. Here we investigated the impact of Klf1Nan on the developmental expression patterns of the endogenous beta-like and alpha-like globins, and the human beta-like globins carried on a HBB locus transgene. We observe that the switch from primitive, yolk sac-derived, erythropoiesis to definitive, fetal liver-derived, erythropoiesis is delayed in Klf1wt/Nan embryos. This is reflected in globin expression patterns measured between E12.5 and E14.5. Cultured Klf1wt/Nan E12.5 fetal liver cells display growth- and differentiation defects. These defects likely contribute to the delayed appearance of definitive erythrocytes in the circulation of Klf1wt/Nan embryos. After E14.5, expression of the embryonic/fetal globin genes is silenced rapidly. In adult Klf1wt/Nan animals, silencing of the embryonic/fetal globin genes is impeded, but only minute amounts are expressed. Thus, in contrast to human KLF1 p.E325K, mouse KLF1 p.E339D does not lead to persistent high levels of embryonic/fetal globins. Our results support the notion that KLF1 affects gene expression in a variant-specific manner, highlighting the necessity to characterize KLF1 variant-specific phenotypes of patients in detail.

The role of Krüppel-like factor 8 in cancer biology: Current research and its clinical relevance

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, ranked second after heart disease. Despite recent advancements in diagnosis and treatment, there are still numerous problems associated with cancer progression, disease recurrence, and therapeutic resistance that are partially explored. Several studies have recently revealed that Krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) regulates transcription of genes linked with diverse biological processes, including proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, invasion, and inflammation. KLF8 is expressed ubiquitously in mammalian cells, and its aberrant expression has been manifested with several cancer types. Earlier studies demonstrated the crucial role of KLF8 in DNA repair and resistance to apoptosis in numerous cancer types. Hence, studying the function of KLF8 from the perspective of cancer progression and therapy resistance would help develop a new therapeutic avenue. In this review, we summarize the clinical relevance of KLF8 expression in various malignancies, focusing on recent updates in EMT, cellular signaling, and cancer stem cells. We also address the contribution of KLF8 in development, DNA repair, chemoresistance, and its clinical utility as a predictive biomarker.

Transcription Factor KLF2 and Its Role in the Regulation of Inflammatory Processes

KLF2 is a member of the Krüppel-like transcription factor family of proteins containing highly conserved DNA-binding zinc finger domains. KLF2 participates in the differentiation and regulation of the functional activity of monocytes, T lymphocytes, adipocytes, and vascular endothelial cells. The activity of KLF2 is controlled by several regulatory systems, including the MEKK2,3/MEK5/ERK5/MEF2 MAP kinase cascade, Rho family G-proteins, histone acetyltransferases CBP and p300, and histone deacetylases HDAC4 and HDAC5. Activation of KLF2 in endothelial cells induces eNOS expression and provides vasodilatory effect. Many KLF2-dependent genes participate in the suppression of blood coagulation and aggregation of T cells and macrophages with the vascular endothelium, thereby preventing atherosclerosis progression. KLF2 can have a dual effect on the gene transcription. Thus, it induces expression of multiple genes, but suppresses transcription of NF-κB-dependent genes. Transcription factors KLF2 and NF-κB are reciprocal antagonists. KLF2 inhibits induction of NF-κB-dependent genes, whereas NF-κB downregulates KLF2 expression. KLF2-mediated inhibition of NF-κB signaling leads to the suppression of cell response to the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα and results in the attenuation of inflammatory processes.

Shear Stress Regulation of Endothelial Glycocalyx Structure Is Determined by Glucobiosynthesis

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial cells exposed to laminar shear stress express a thick glycocalyx on their surface that plays an important role in reducing vascular permeability and endothelial anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antiangiogenic properties. Production and maintenance of this glycocalyx layer is dependent on cellular carbohydrate synthesis, but its regulation is still unknown. Approach and Results: Here, we show that biosynthesis of the major structural component of the endothelial glycocalyx, hyaluronan, is regulated by shear. Both in vitro as well as in in vivo, hyaluronan expression on the endothelial surface is increased on laminar shear and reduced when exposed to oscillatory flow, which is regulated by KLF2 (Krüppel-like Factor 2). Using a CRISPR-CAS9 edited small tetracysteine tag to endogenous HAS2 (hyaluronan synthase 2), we demonstrated increased translocation of HAS2 to the endothelial cell membrane during laminar shear. Hyaluronan production by HAS2 was shown to be further driven by availability of the hyaluronan substrates UDP-glucosamine and UDP-glucuronic acid. KLF2 inhibits endothelial glycolysis and allows for glucose intermediates to shuttle into the hexosamine- and glucuronic acid biosynthesis pathways, as measured using nuclear magnetic resonance analysis in combination with ¹³C-labeled glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate how endothelial glycocalyx function and functional adaptation to shear is coupled to KLF2-mediated regulation of endothelial glycolysis.

KLF12 Regulates Mouse NK Cell Proliferation

NK cells are innate lymphocytes that play an integral role in tumor rejection and viral clearance. Unlike their other lymphocyte counterparts, NK cells have the unique ability to recognize and lyse target cells without prior exposure. However, there are no known NK cell-specific genes that are exclusively expressed by all NK cells. Therefore, identification of NK cell-specific genes would allow a better understanding of why NK cells are unique cytotoxic lymphocytes. From the Immunological Genome (ImmGen) Consortium studies, we identified kruppel-like factor 12 (Klf12), encoding a novel transcription factor, preferentially expressed in C57BL/6 mouse NK cells. KLF12 was dispensable for NK cell development, IFN-γ production, degranulation, and proliferation in Klf12 knockout mice. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed increased expression of Btg3, an antiproliferative gene, in KLF12-deficient NK cells compared with wild-type NK cells. Interestingly, competitive mixed bone marrow chimeric mice exhibited reduced development of KLF12-deficient NK cells, altered IFN-γ production and degranulation, and impairment of NK cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo in response to mouse CMV infection. KLF12-deficient NK cells from bone marrow chimeric mice also expressed higher levels of the IL-21R, which resulted in increased IL-21R signaling and correlated with greater inhibition of NK cell proliferation. Furthermore, IL-21 induced Btg3 expression, which correlated with arrested NK cell maturation and proliferation. In summary, we found that KLF12 regulates mouse NK cell proliferation potentially by regulating expression of Btg3 via IL-21.

Genomic variants in members of the Krüppel-like factor gene family are associated with disease severity and hydroxyurea treatment efficacy in β-hemoglobinopathies patients

Aim: β-Type hemoglobinopathies are characterized by vast phenotypic diversity as far as disease severity is concerned, while differences have also been observed in hydroxyurea (HU) treatment efficacy. These differences are partly attributed to the residual expression of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in adulthood. The Krüppel-like family of transcription factors (KLFs) are a set of zinc finger DNA-binding proteins which play a major role in HbF regulation. Here, we explored the possible association of variants in KLF gene family members with response to HU treatment efficacy and disease severity in β-hemoglobinopathies patients. Materials & methods: Six tag single nucleotide polymorphisms, located in four KLF genes, namely KLF3, KLF4, KLF9 and KLF10, were analyzed in 110 β-thalassemia major patients (TDT), 18 nontransfusion dependent β-thalassemia patients (NTDT), 82 sickle cell disease/β-thalassemia compound heterozygous patients and 85 healthy individuals as controls. Results: Our findings show that a KLF4 genomic variant (rs2236599) is associated with HU treatment efficacy in sickle cell disease/β-thalassemia compound heterozygous patients and two KLF10 genomic variants (rs980112, rs3191333) are associated with persistent HbF levels in NTDT patients. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence that genomic variants located in KLF10 gene may be considered as potential prognostic biomarkers of β-thalassemia clinical severity and an additional variant in KLF4 gene as a pharmacogenomic biomarker, predicting response to HU treatment.

The antibiotic clofoctol suppresses glioma stem cell proliferation by activating KLF13

Gliomas account for approximately 80% of primary malignant tumors in the central nervous system. Despite aggressive therapy, the prognosis of patients remains extremely poor. Glioma stem cells (GSCs) which considered as the potential target of therapy for their crucial role in therapeutic resistance and tumor recurrence, are believed to be key factors for the disappointing outcome. Here, we took advantage of GSCs as the cell model to perform high-throughput drug screening and the old antibiotic, clofoctol, was identified as the most effective compound, showing reduction of colony-formation and induction of apoptosis of GSCs. Moreover, growth of tumors was inhibited obviously in vivo after clofoctol treatment especially in primary patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) and transgenic xenografts. The anticancer mechanisms demonstrated by analyzing related downstream genes and discovering the targeted binding protein revealed that clofoctol exhibited the inhibition of GSCs by upregulation of Kruppel-like factor 13 (KLF13), a tumor suppressor gene, through clofoctol's targeted binding protein, Upstream of N-ras (UNR). Collectively, these data demonstrated that induction of KLF13 expression suppressed growth of gliomas and provided a potential therapy for gliomas targeting GSCs. Importantly, our results also identified the RNA-binding protein UNR as a drug target.

Krüppel-like factors in mammalian stem cells and development

Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of zinc-finger transcription factors that are found in many species. Recent studies have shown that KLFs play a fundamental role in regulating diverse biological processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, development and regeneration. Of note, several KLFs are also crucial for maintaining pluripotency and, hence, have been linked to reprogramming and regenerative medicine approaches. Here, we review the crucial functions of KLFs in mammalian embryogenesis, stem cell biology and regeneration, as revealed by studies of animal models. We also highlight how KLFs have been implicated in human diseases and outline potential avenues for future research.

Krüppel-like factor 8 induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and promotes invasion of pancreatic cancer cells through transcriptional activation of four and a half LIM-only protein 2

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive types of cancer with an extremely poor prognosis. Invasive growth and early metastasis is one of the greatest challenges to overcome for the treatment of PC. Numerous previous studies have indicated that the transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) and nuclear cofactor four and a half LIM-only protein 2 (FHL2) serve important roles in tumorigenesis and tumor progression; however, their roles in PC remain elusive. The present study revealed that KLF8 and FHL2 expression is aberrantly co-overexpressed in PC tissue samples and associated with tumor metastasis. Furthermore, a positive correlation between the expression levels of KLF8 and FHL2 was observed. Subsequently, the present study identified KLF8 as a critical inducer of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion. Of note, the present study demonstrated that KLF8 overexpression induced a strong increase in FHL2 expression, and subsequent promoter reporter assays determined that KLF8 directly bound and activated the FHL2 gene promoter. Furthermore, FHL2 knockdown in KLF8-overexpressing cells partially reversed the EMT and invasive phenotypes. The present study identified KLF8-induced FHL2 activation as a novel and critical signaling mechanism underlying human PC invasion.

Klf8 regulates left-right asymmetric patterning through modulation of Kupffer's vesicle morphogenesis and spaw expression

BACKGROUND

Although vertebrates are bilaterally symmetric organisms, their internal organs are distributed asymmetrically along a left-right axis. Disruption of left-right axis asymmetric patterning often occurs in human genetic disorders. In zebrafish embryos, Kupffer's vesicle, like the mouse node, breaks symmetry by inducing asymmetric expression of the Nodal-related gene, spaw, in the left lateral plate mesoderm (LPM). Spaw then stimulates transcription of itself and downstream genes, including lft1, lft2, and pitx2, specifically in the left side of the diencephalon, heart and LPM. This developmental step is essential to establish subsequent asymmetric organ positioning. In this study, we evaluated the role of krüppel-like factor 8 (klf8) in regulating left-right asymmetric patterning in zebrafish embryos.

METHODS

Zebrafish klf8 expression was disrupted by both morpholino antisense oligomer-mediated knockdown and a CRISPR-Cas9 system. Whole-mount in situ hybridization was conducted to evaluate gene expression patterns of Nodal signalling components and the positions of heart and visceral organs. Dorsal forerunner cell number was evaluated in Tg(sox17:gfp) embryos and the length and number of cilia in Kupffer's vesicle were analyzed by immunocytochemistry using an acetylated tubulin antibody.

RESULTS

Heart jogging, looping and visceral organ positioning were all defective in zebrafish klf8 morphants. At the 18-22 s stages, klf8 morphants showed reduced expression of genes encoding Nodal signalling components (spaw, lft1, lft2, and pitx2) in the left LPM, diencephalon, and heart. Co-injection of klf8 mRNA with klf8 morpholino partially rescued spaw expression. Furthermore, klf8 but not klf8△zf overexpressing embryos showed dysregulated bilateral expression of Nodal signalling components at late somite stages. At the 10s stage, klf8 morphants exhibited reductions in length and number of cilia in Kupffer's vesicle, while at 75% epiboly, fewer dorsal forerunner cells were observed. Interestingly, klf8 mutant embryos, generated by a CRISPR-Cas9 system, showed bilateral spaw expression in the LPM at late somite stages. This observation may be partly attributed to compensatory upregulation of klf12b, because klf12b knockdown reduced the percentage of klf8 mutants exhibiting bilateral spaw expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that zebrafish Klf8 regulates left-right asymmetric patterning by modulating both Kupffer's vesicle morphogenesis and spaw expression in the left LPM.

Characterization and phylogenetic analysis of Krüppel-like transcription factor (KLF) gene family in tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri chinensis)

Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of zinc finger transcription factors regulating embryonic development and diseases. The phylogenetics of KLFs has not been studied in tree shrews, an animal lineage with a closer relationship to primates than rodents. Here, we identified 17 KLFs from Chinese tree shrew (Tupaia belangeri chinensis). KLF proteins are highly conserved among humans, monkeys, rats, mice and tree shrews compared to zebrafish and chickens. The CtBP binding site, Sin3A binding site and nuclear localization signals are largely conserved between tree shrews and human beings. Tupaia belangeri (Tb) KLF5 contains several conserved post-transcriptional modification motifs. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression patterns of multiple tbKLFs are tissue-specific. TbKLF5, like hKLF5, significantly promotes NIH3T3 cell proliferation in vitro. These results provide insight for future studies regarding the structure and function of the tbKLF gene family.

Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4): What we currently know

Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is an evolutionarily conserved zinc finger-containing transcription factor that regulates diverse cellular processes such as cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Since its discovery in 1996, KLF4 has been gaining a lot of attention, particularly after it was shown in 2006 as one of four factors involved in the induction of pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Here we review the current knowledge about the different functions and roles of KLF4 in various tissue and organ systems.

Krüppel-like transcription factor 8 (Klf8) is expressed and active in the neurons of the mouse brain

Krüppel-like transcription factor 8 (KLF8) is a transcription factor suggested to be involved in various cellular events, including malignant cell transformation, still its expression in the adult rodent brain remained unknown. To analyze Klf8 in the mouse brain and to identify cell types expressing it, a specific transgenic Klf8(Gt1Gaj) mouse was used. The resulting Klf8 gene-driven β-galactosidase activity was visualized by X-gal histochemical staining of the brain sections. The obtained results were complemented by in situ RNA hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Klf8 was highly expressed throughout the adult mouse brain gray matter including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, olfactory bulb, hypothalamus, pallidum, and striatum, but not in the cerebellum. Immunofluorescent double-labeling revealed that KLF8-immunoreactive cells were neurons, and the staining was located in their nucleus. This was the first study showing that Klf8 was highly expressed in various regions of the mouse brain and in particular in the neurons, where it was localized in the cell nuclei.

Targeted fetal hemoglobin induction for treatment of beta hemoglobinopathies

Fetal globin (gamma globin; HBG) is normally expressed during fetal life and prevents the clinical manifestations of beta hemoglobinopathies before birth. HBG genes are normally integrated in hematopoietic stem cells in all humans, and are at least partially amenable to reactivation. Inducing expression of fetal globin (HBG) gene expression to 60% to 70% of alpha globin synthesis produces a β-thalassemia trait phenotype, and reduces anemia. Tailoring combinations of therapeutics to patient subsets characterized for quantitative trait loci which modulate basal fetal hemoglobin and erythroid cell survival should provide effective amelioration of clinical symptoms in β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease.

Characterization of transcription factor networks involved in umbilical cord blood CD34+ stem cells-derived erythropoiesis

Fetal stem cells isolated from umbilical cord blood (UCB) possess a great capacity for proliferation and differentiation and serve as a valuable model system to study gene regulation. Expanded knowledge of the molecular control of hemoglobin synthesis will provide a basis for rational design of therapies for β-hemoglobinopathies. Transcriptome data are available for erythroid progenitors derived from adult stem cells, however studies to define molecular mechanisms controlling globin gene regulation during fetal erythropoiesis are limited. Here, we utilize UCB-CD34⁺ stem cells induced to undergo erythroid differentiation to characterize the transcriptome and transcription factor networks (TFNs) associated with the γ/β-globin switch during fetal erythropoiesis. UCB-CD34⁺ stem cells grown in the one-phase liquid culture system displayed a higher proliferative capacity than adult CD34⁺ stem cells. The γ/β-globin switch was observed after day 42 during fetal erythropoiesis in contrast to adult progenitors where the switch occurred around day 21. To gain insights into transcription factors involved in globin gene regulation, microarray analysis was performed on RNA isolated from UCB-CD34⁺ cell-derived erythroid progenitors harvested on day 21, 42, 49 and 56 using the HumanHT-12 Expression BeadChip. After data normalization, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis identified transcription factors (TFs) with significant changes in expression during the γ/β-globin switch. Forty-five TFs were silenced by day 56 (Profile-1) and 30 TFs were activated by day 56 (Profile-2). Both GSEA datasets were analyzed using the MIMI Cytoscape platform, which discovered TFNs centered on KLF4 and GATA2 (Profile-1) and KLF1 and GATA1 for Profile-2 genes. Subsequent shRNA studies in KU812 leukemia cells and human erythroid progenitors generated from UCB-CD34⁺ cells supported a negative role of MAFB in γ-globin regulation. The characteristics of erythroblasts derived from UCB-CD34⁺ stem cells including prolonged γ-globin expression combined with unique TFNs support novel mechanisms controlling the γ/β-globin switch during UCB-derived erythropoiesis.

Krüppel-like factor 4 regulates blood-tumor barrier permeability via ZO-1, occludin and claudin-5

Blood-tumor barrier (BTB) constitutes an efficient organization of tight junctions which significantly reduce permeability for chemotherapy drugs. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), a member of the Krüppel-like family, has been documented in endothelial cells and may serve as an essential regulator of endothelial barrier function. However, our knowledge about the expression and function of KLF4 in the endothelial cells of BTB still remains unclear. In this study, we sought to investigate the role of KLF4 in regulation of BTB function as well as the potential molecular mechanisms. Quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that KLF4 was down-regulated in the glioma endothelial cells (GECs) which were obtained through endothelial cells co-cultured with glioma cells. Short hairpin RNA targeting KLF4 impaired the integrity of BTB detected by trans-endothelial electric resistance assay, and meanwhile reduced the expression of ZO-1, occludin and claudin-5, demonstrated by quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence assays. Depletion of KLF4 increased BTB permeability to small molecules detected by permeability assays. Furthermore, luciferase assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that KLF4 up-regulated the promoter activities and interacted with "CACCC" DNA sequence presented in the promoters of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-5. GATA-1, GATA-6, Sp1, and Sp3 factors participated in KLF4 regulation of promoter activities through binding to the promoters of tight junctions related proteins. Collectively, our results indicated that KLF4 is a key transcriptional regulator of BTB function by regulating expressions of tight junction related proteins, which would draw growing attention to KLF4 as a potential target for glioma therapy.

KLF4 promoted odontoblastic differentiation of mouse dental papilla cells via regulation of DMP1

Odontoblasts, which derive from dental papilla, are a type of terminally differentiated matrix-secreting cells. Previous studies have identified various transcription factors involved in the differentiation process of odontoblasts. We have recently found that Krüppel-like factor 4 (Klf4) was expressed in the polarizing and elongating odontoblasts, but the function of Klf4 in the differentiation of odontoblasts is still unclear. We hypothesized Klf4 promoted the differentiation of odontoblasts by up-regulating some odontoblast-related genes. In this study, we found that the expression of Klf4 increased significantly during the odontoblastic differentiation of primary mouse dental papilla cells and the mouse dental papilla cell line-mDPC6T. Overexpression of Klf4 significantly up-regulated odontoblast-related genes, such as Dmp1, Dspp, and Alp, and promoted the accumulation of mineral nodules. Knock-down of Klf4 down-regulated expression of Dmp1, Dspp, and Alp, and inhibited mineral deposition. We applied in silico analysis and identified one target gene of Klf4-Dmp1. Based on further analysis of ChIP data, EMSA and dual luciferase activity assays, we confirmed that Klf4 was able to specifically bind to the Dmp1 promoter and transactivate its expression. Furthermore, forced expression of Dmp1 in the Klf4 knock-down mDPC6T cell line significantly recovered its odontoblastic differentiation ability. Our data confirmed our hypothesis that Klf4 promotes the differentiation of odontoblasts via the up-regulation of Dmp1.

Three fingers on the switch: Krüppel-like factor 1 regulation of γ-globin to β-globin gene switching

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Krüppel-like factor 1 (KLF1) regulates most aspects of erythropoiesis. Many years ago, transgenic mouse studies implicated KLF1 in the control of the human γ-globin to β-globin switch. In this review, we will integrate these initial studies with recent developments in human genetics to discuss our present understanding of how KLF1 and its target genes direct the switch.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have shown that human mutations in KLF1 are common and mostly asymptomatic, but lead to significant increases in levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) (α2γ2) and adult HbA2 (α2δ2). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have demonstrated that three primary loci are associated with increased HbF levels in the population: the β-globin locus itself, the BCL11A locus, and a site between MYB and HBS1L. We discuss evidence that KLF1 directly regulates BCL11A, MYB and other genes, which are involved directly or indirectly in γ-globin silencing, thus providing a link between GWAS and KLF1 in hemoglobin switching.

SUMMARY

KLF1 regulates the γ-globin to β-globin genetic switch by many mechanisms. Firstly, it facilitates formation of an active chromatin hub (ACH) at the β-globin gene cluster. Specifically, KLF1 conscripts the adult-stage β-globin gene to replace the γ-globin gene within the ACH in a stage-specific manner. Secondly, KLF1 acts as a direct activator of genes that encode repressors of γ-globin gene expression. Finally, KLF1 is a regulator of many components of the cell cycle machinery. We suggest that dysregulation of these genes leads to cell cycle perturbation and 'erythropoietic stress' leading to indirect upregulation of HbF.

Comprehensive characterization of erythroid-specific enhancers in the genomic regions of human Krüppel-like factors

Background

Mapping of DNase I hypersensitive sites (DHSs) is a powerful tool to experimentally identify cis-regulatory elements (CREs). Among CREs, enhancers are abundant and predominantly act in driving cell-specific gene expression. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of eukaryotic transcription factors. Several KLFs have been demonstrated to play important roles in hematopoiesis. However, transcriptional regulation of KLFs via CREs, particularly enhancers, in erythroid cells has been poorly understood.

Results

In this study, 23 erythroid-specific or putative erythroid-specific DHSs were identified by DNase-seq in the genomic regions of 17 human KLFs, and their enhancer activities were evaluated using dual-luciferase reporter (DLR) assay. Of the 23 erythroid-specific DHSs, the enhancer activities of 15 DHSs were comparable to that of the classical enhancer HS2 in driving minimal promoter (minP). Fifteen DHSs, some overlapping those that increased minP activities, acted as enhancers when driving the corresponding KLF promoters (KLF-Ps) in erythroid cells; of these, 10 DHSs were finally characterized as erythroid-specific KLF enhancers. These 10 erythroid-specific KLF enhancers were further confirmed using chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled to sequencing (ChIP-seq) data-based bioinformatic and biochemical analyses.

Conclusion

Our present findings provide a feasible strategy to extensively identify gene- and cell-specific enhancers from DHSs obtained by high-throughput sequencing, which will help reveal the transcriptional regulation and biological functions of genes in some specific cells.

Transformation of human ovarian surface epithelial cells by Krüppel-like factor 8

Previously we demonstrated that Krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) participates in oncogenic transformation of mouse fibroblasts and is highly overexpressed in human ovarian cancer. In this work, we first correlated KLF8 overexpression with the aggressiveness of ovarian patient tumors and then tested if KLF8 could transform human ovarian epithelial cells. Using the immortalized non-tumorigenic human ovarian surface epithelial cell line T80 and retroviral infection, we generated cell lines that constitutively overexpress KLF8 alone or its combination with the known ovarian oncogenes c-Myc, Stat3c and/or Akt and examined the cell lines for anchorage-independent growth and tumorigenesis. The soft agar clonogenic assay showed that T80/KLF8 cells formed significantly more colonies than the mock cells. Interestingly, the cells expressing both KLF8 and c-Myc formed the largest amounts of colonies greater than the sum of colonies formed by the cells expressing KLF8 and c-Myc alone. These results suggested that KLF8 might be a weak oncogene that works cooperatively with c-Myc to transform ovarian cells. Surprisingly, overexpression of KLF8 alone was sufficient to induce tumorigenesis in nude mice resulting in short life span whether the T80/KLF8 cells were injected subcutaneously, intraperitoneally or orthotopically into the ovarian bursa. Histopathological studies confirmed that the T80/KLF8 tumors were characteristic of human serous ovarian carcinomas. Comparative expression profiling and functional studies identified the cell cycle regulators cyclin D1 and USP44 as primary KLF8 targets and effectors for the T80 transformation. Overall, we identified KLF8 overexpression as an important factor in human ovarian carcinoma pathogenesis.

Simvastatin and t-butylhydroquinone suppress KLF1 and BCL11A gene expression and additively increase fetal hemoglobin in primary human erythroid cells

Although increased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels have proven benefit for people with β-hemoglobinopathies, all current HbF-inducing agents have limitations. We previously reported that drugs that activate the NRF2 antioxidant response signaling pathway increase HbF in primary human erythroid cells. In an attempt to increase HbF levels achieved with NRF2 activators, in the present study, we investigated potential complementary activity between these agents and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) based on their ability to induce KLF2 protein levels. Experiments in K562 cells showed that simvastatin increased KLF2 mRNA and protein and KLF2 binding to HS2 of the β-globin locus control region and enhanced -globin mRNA production by the NRF2 activator Tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ). When tested in differentiating primary human erythroid cells, simvastatin induced HbF alone and additively with tBHQ, but it did not increase KLF2 mRNA or locus control region binding above levels seen with normal differentiation. Investigating alternative mechanisms of action, we found that both simvastatin and tBHQ suppress β-globin mRNA and KLF1 and BCL11A mRNA and protein, similar to what is seen in people with an HPFH phenotype because of KLF1 haploinsufficiency. These findings identify statins as a potential class of HbF-inducing agents and suggest a novel mechanism of action based on pharmacologic suppression of KLF1 and BCL11A gene expression.

KEY POINTS

Simvastatin and tBHQ suppress KLF1 and BCL11 gene expression and additively increase fetal hemoglobin in primary human erythroid cells. Because both drugs are FDA-approved, these findings could lead to clinical trials in the relatively near future.

Kruppel-like factor 1 (KLF1), KLF2, and Myc control a regulatory network essential for embryonic erythropoiesis

The Krüppel-like factor 1 (KLF1) and KLF2 positively regulate embryonic β-globin expression and have additional overlapping roles in embryonic (primitive) erythropoiesis. KLF1(-/-) KLF2(-/-) double knockout mice are anemic at embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5) and die by E11.5, in contrast to single knockouts. To investigate the combined roles of KLF1 and KLF2 in primitive erythropoiesis, expression profiling of E9.5 erythroid cells was performed. A limited number of genes had a significantly decreasing trend of expression in wild-type, KLF1(-/-), and KLF1(-/-) KLF2(-/-) mice. Among these, the gene for Myc (c-Myc) emerged as a central node in the most significant gene network. The expression of the Myc gene is synergistically regulated by KLF1 and KLF2, and both factors bind the Myc promoters. To characterize the role of Myc in primitive erythropoiesis, ablation was performed specifically in mouse embryonic proerythroblast cells. After E9.5, these embryos exhibit an arrest in the normal expansion of circulating red cells and develop anemia, analogous to KLF1(-/-) KLF2(-/-) embryos. In the absence of Myc, circulating erythroid cells do not show the normal increase in α- and β-like globin gene expression but, interestingly, have accelerated erythroid cell maturation between E9.5 and E11.5. This study reveals a novel regulatory network by which KLF1 and KLF2 regulate Myc to control the primitive erythropoietic program.

Characterization of the transcriptome profiles related to globin gene switching during in vitro erythroid maturation

Background

The fetal and adult globin genes in the human β-globin cluster on chromosome 11 are sequentially expressed to achieve normal hemoglobin switching during human development. The pharmacological induction of fetal γ-globin (HBG) to replace abnormal adult sickle β^S-globin is a successful strategy to treat sickle cell disease; however the molecular mechanism of γ-gene silencing after birth is not fully understood. Therefore, we performed global gene expression profiling using primary erythroid progenitors grown from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells to characterize gene expression patterns during the γ-globin to β-globin (γ/β) switch observed throughout in vitro erythroid differentiation.

Results

We confirmed erythroid maturation in our culture system using cell morphologic features defined by Giemsa staining and the γ/β-globin switch by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis. We observed maximal γ-globin expression at day 7 with a switch to a predominance of β-globin expression by day 28 and the γ/β-globin switch occurred around day 21. Expression patterns for transcription factors including GATA1, GATA2, KLF1 and NFE2 confirmed our system produced the expected pattern of expression based on the known function of these factors in globin gene regulation. Subsequent gene expression profiling was performed with RNA isolated from progenitors harvested at day 7, 14, 21, and 28 in culture. Three major gene profiles were generated by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). For profile-1 genes, where expression decreased from day 7 to day 28, we identified 2,102 genes down-regulated > 1.5-fold. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) for profile-1 genes demonstrated involvement of the Cdc42, phospholipase C, NF-Kβ, Interleukin-4, and p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Transcription factors known to be involved in γ-and β-globin regulation were identified.

The same approach was used to generate profile-2 genes where expression was up-regulated over 28 days in culture. IPA for the 2,437 genes with > 1.5-fold induction identified the mitotic roles of polo-like kinase, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, cell cycle control, and ATM (Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated Protein) signaling pathways; transcription factors identified included KLF1, GATA1 and NFE2 among others. Finally, profile-3 was generated from 1,579 genes with maximal expression at day 21, around the time of the γ/β-globin switch. IPA identified associations with cell cycle control, ATM, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling pathways.

Conclusions

The transcriptome analysis completed with erythroid progenitors grown in vitro identified groups of genes with distinct expression profiles, which function in metabolic pathways associated with cell survival, hematopoiesis, blood cells activation, and inflammatory responses. This study represents the first report of a transcriptome analysis in human primary erythroid progenitors to identify transcription factors involved in hemoglobin switching. Our results also demonstrate that the in vitro liquid culture system is an excellent model to define mechanisms of global gene expression and the DNA-binding protein and signaling pathways involved in globin gene regulation.

Partner in fat metabolism: role of KLFs in fat burning and reproductive behavior

The abnormalities caused by excess fat accumulation can result in pathological conditions which are linked to several interrelated diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and obesity. This set of conditions, known as metabolic syndrome, is a global pandemic of enormous medical, economic, and social concern affecting a significant portion of the world’s population. Although genetics, physiology and environmental components play a major role in the onset of disease caused by excessive fat accumulation, little is known about how or to what extent each of these factors contributes to it. The worm, Caenorhabditis elegans offers an opportunity to study disease related to metabolic disorder in a developmental system that provides anatomical and genomic simplicity relative to the vertebrate animals and is an excellent eukaryotic genetic model which enable us to answer the questions concerning fat accumulation which remain unresolved. The stored triglycerides (TG) provide the primary source of energy during periods of food deficiency. In nature, lipid stored as TGs are hydrolyzed into fatty acids which are broken down through β-oxidation to yield acetyl-CoA. Our recent study suggests that a member of C. elegans Krüppel-like factor, klf-3 regulates lipid metabolism by promoting FA β-oxidation and in parallel may contribute in normal reproduction and fecundity. Genetic and epigenetic factors that influence this pathway may have considerable impact on fat related diseases in human. Increasing number of studies suggest the role of mammalian KLFs in adipogenesis. This functional conservation should guide our further effort to explore C. elegans as a legitimate model system for studying the role of KLFs in many pathway components of lipid metabolism.

Krüppel-like Factor 4 activates HBG gene expression in primary erythroid cells

The SP1/Krüppel-like Factor (SP1/KLF) family of transcription factors plays a role in diverse cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation and control of gene transcription. The discovery of KLF1 (EKLF), a key regulator of HBB (β-globin) gene expression, expanded our understanding of the role of KLFs in erythropoiesis. In this study, we investigated a mechanism of HBG (γ-globin) regulation by KLF4. siRNA-mediated gene silencing and enforced expression of KLF4 in K562 cells substantiated the ability of KLF4 to positively regulate endogenous HBG gene transcription. The physiological significance of this finding was confirmed in primary erythroid cells, where KLF4 knockdown at day 11 significantly attenuated HBG mRNA levels and enforced expression at day 28 stimulated the silenced HBG genes. In vitro binding characterization using the γ-CACCC and β-CACCC probes demonstrated KLF4 preferentially binds the endogenous γ-CACCC, while CREB binding protein (CREBBP) binding was not selective. Co-immunoprecipitation studies confirmed protein-protein interaction between KLF4 and CREBBP. Furthermore, sequential chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed co-localization of both factors in the γ-CACCC region. Subsequent luciferase reporter studies demonstrated that KLF4 trans-activated HBG promoter activity and that CREBBP enforced expression resulted in gene repression. Our data supports a model of antagonistic interaction of KLF4/CREBBP trans-factors in HBG regulation.

Krüppel-like factor 2 regulated gene expression in mouse embryonic yolk sac erythroid cells

KLF2 is a Krüppel-like zinc-finger transcription factor required for blood vessel, lung, T-cell and erythroid development. KLF2-/- mice die by embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5), due to hemorrhaging and heart failure. In KLF2-/- embryos, β-like globin gene expression is reduced, and E10.5 erythroid cells exhibit abnormal morphology. In this study, other genes regulated by KLF2 were identified by comparing E9.5 KLF2-/- and wild-type (WT) yolk sac erythroid precursor cells, using laser capture microdissection and microarray assays. One hundred and ninety-six genes exhibited significant differences in expression between KLF2-/- and WT; eighty-nine of these are downregulated in KLF2-/-. Genes involved in cell migration, differentiation and development are over-represented in the KLF2-regulated gene list. The SOX2 gene, encoding a pluripotency factor, is regulated by KLF2 in both ES and embryonic erythroid cells. Previous work had identified genes with erythroid-enriched expression in the yolk sac. The erythroid-enriched genes reelin, adenylate cyclase 7, cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 2 alpha, and CD24a antigen are downregulated in KLF2-/- compared to WT and are therefore candidates for controlling primitive erythropoiesis. Each of these genes contains a putative KLF2 binding site(s) in its promoter and/or an intron. Reelin has an established role in neuronal development. Luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that KLF2 directly transactivates the reelin promoter in erythroid cells, validating this approach to identify KLF2 target genes.

Induction of human fetal hemoglobin via the NRF2 antioxidant response signaling pathway

Although hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy have the potential to cure β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease, they are not currently available to most people with these diseases. In the near term, pharmacologic induction of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) may offer the best possibility for safe, effective, and widely available therapy. In an effort to define new pathways for targeted drug development for HbF induction, we evaluated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) antioxidant response element signaling pathway. We found that 3 well-known activators of this pathway increased γ-globin mRNA at nontoxic doses in K562 cells. Tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ), the most active of these compounds, increased cellular levels and nuclear translocation of NRF2 and binding of NRF2 to the γ-globin promoter. siRNA knockdown of NRF2 inhibited γ-globin induction by tBHQ. When tested in human primary erythroid cells, tBHQ induced NRF2 binding to the γ-globin promoter, increased γ-globin mRNA and HbF, and suppressed β-globin mRNA and HbA, resulting in a > 3-fold increase in the percentage of HbF. These results suggest that drugs that activate the NRF2/antioxidant response element signaling pathway have the potential to induce therapeutic levels of HbF in people with β-hemoglobinopathies.

KLF8 promotes human breast cancer cell invasion and metastasis by transcriptional activation of MMP9

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and extracellular matrix degradation are critical for the initiation and progression of tumor invasion. We have recently identified Krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) as a critical inducer of EMT and invasion. KLF8 induces EMT primarily by repressing E-cadherin transcription. However, how KLF8 promotes invasion is unknown. Here we report a novel KLF8-to-MMP9 signaling that promotes human breast cancer invasion. To identify the potential KLF8 regulation of MMPs in breast cancer, we established two inducible cell lines that allow either KLF8 overexpression in MCF-10A or knockdown in MDA-MB-231 cells. KLF8 overexpression induced a strong increase in MMP9 expression and activity as determined by quantitative real-time PCR and zymography. This induction was well correlated with the MMP inhibitor-sensitive Matrigel invasion. Conversely, KLF8 knockdown caused the opposite changes that could be partially prevented by MMP9 overexpression. Promoter-reporter assays and chromatin and oligonucleotide precipitations determined that KLF8 directly bound and activated the human MMP9 gene promoter. Three-dimensional (3D) glandular culture showed that KLF8 expression disrupted the normal acinus formation which could be prevented by the MMP inhibitor, whereas KLF8 knockdown corrected the abnormal 3D architecture which could be protected by MMP9 overexpression. KLF8 knockdown promoted MDA-MB-231 cell aggregation in suspension culture which could be prevented by MMP9 overexpression. KLF8 knockdown inhibited the lung metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells in nude mice. Immunohistochemical staining strongly correlated the co-expression of KLF8 and MMP9 with the patient tumor invasion, metastasis and poor survival. Taken together, this work identified the KLF8 activation of MMP9 as a novel and critical signaling mechanism underlying human breast cancer invasion and metastasis.

Mammalian Krüppel-like factors in health and diseases

The Krüppel-like factor (KLF) family of transcription factors regulates diverse biological processes that include proliferation, differentiation, growth, development, survival, and responses to external stress. Seventeen mammalian KLFs have been identified, and numerous studies have been published that describe their basic biology and contribution to human diseases. KLF proteins have received much attention because of their involvement in the development and homeostasis of numerous organ systems. KLFs are critical regulators of physiological systems that include the cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, hematological, and immune systems and are involved in disorders such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, KLFs play an important role in reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and maintaining the pluripotent state of embryonic stem cells. As research on KLF proteins progresses, additional KLF functions and associations with disease are likely to be discovered. Here, we review the current knowledge of KLF proteins and describe common attributes of their biochemical and physiological functions and their pathophysiological roles.

KLF8 recruits the p300 and PCAF co-activators to its amino terminal activation domain to activate transcription

Krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) regulates critical cellular processes including cell cycle progression, transformation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, migration and invasion by either repressing or activating target gene promoters. As a repressor, KLF8 recruits the CtBP co-repressor via its PVDLS repression motif. However, how KLF8 acts as an activator has not been determined. Here we report the identification of both the KLF8 activation domain and associated co-activators. By site-directed mutagenesis and cyclin D1 promoter reporter assays using both mouse fibroblasts and human epithelial cells, we determined that deletion of residues 100-260 or mutation of Q118-Q248 abolished KLF8 transactivity. this transactivity was dramatically reduced in p300(-/-), CBP(-/-) or PCAF(-/-) cells and could be restored by re-expressing p300 or PCAF, but not CBP. Co-immunoprecipitation analyses demonstrated that KLF8 interacted with these co-activators whereas the Q118N-Q248N mutant did not. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that KLF8 promoted histone acetylation at the promoter whereas the Q118N-Q248N mutant had a dramatic loss of this function. Western blotting revealed that unlike wild-type KLF8 the Q118N-Q248N was no longer able to upregulate cyclin D1 protein level. BrdU incorporation assays showed that the Q118N-Q248N mutant also lost the ability to promote DNA synthesis. Taken together, these results identified the KLF8 activation domain located between residues 101-260 where the well-conserved Q118 and Q248 are essential for recruiting p300 and PCAF to activate target gene transcription.

Regulation of the human HBA genes by KLF4 in erythroid cell lines

KLF1/EKLF and related Krueppel-like factors (KLFs) are variably implicated in the regulation of the HBB-like globin genes. Prompted by the observation that four KLF sites are distributed in the human alpha-globin gene (HBA) promoter, we investigated if KLFs could also act to modulate the expression of the HBA genes. Among the KLFs tested, only KLF4/GKLF bound specifically to three out of four alpha-globin KLF sites. The occupancy of the same sites by KLF4 in vivo was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays with KLF4-specific antibodies. In luciferase reporter assays in MEL cells, high levels of the wild type HBA promoter, but not mutated promoters bearing point mutations that disrupted KLF4-DNA binding, were transactivated by over-expression of KLF4. In K562 cells, induced KLF4 expression with a Tet-off regulated cassette stimulated the expression of the endogenous HBA genes. In a complementary assay in the same cell line, knocking down KLF4 with lentiviral delivered sh-RNAs caused a parallel decrease in the transcription of the HBA genes. All experiments combined support a regulatory role of KLF4 in the control of HBA gene expression.

Essential role of KLF5 transcription factor in cell proliferation and differentiation and its implications for human diseases

KLF5 (Kruppel-like factor 5) is a basic transcription factor binding to GC boxes at a number of gene promoters and regulating their transcription. KLF5 is expressed during development and, in adults, with higher levels in proliferating epithelial cells. The expression and activity of KLF5 are regulated by multiple signaling pathways, including Ras/MAPK, PKC, and TGFbeta, and various posttranslational modifications, including phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation. Consistently, KLF5 mediates the signaling functions in cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, differentiation, and stemness by regulating gene expression in response to environment stimuli. The expression of KLF5 is frequently abnormal in human cancers and in cardiovascular disease-associated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Due to its significant functions in cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation, KLF5 could be a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Fetal hemoglobin chemical inducers for treatment of hemoglobinopathies

The switch from fetal ((G)gamma and (A)gamma) to adult (beta and delta) globin gene expression occurs at birth, leading to the gradual replacement of HbF with HbA. Genetic regulation of this switch has been studied for decades, and the molecular mechanisms underlying this developmental change in gene expression have been in part elucidated. The understanding of the developmental regulation of gamma-globin gene expression was paralleled by the identification of a series of chemical compounds able to reactivate HbF synthesis in vitro and in vivo in adult erythroid cells. Reactivation of HbF expression is an important therapeutic option in patients with hemoglobin disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia. These HbF inducers can be grouped in several classes based on their chemical structures and mechanisms of action. Clinical studies with some of these agents have shown that they were effective, in a part of patients, in ameliorating the clinical condition. The increase in HbF in response to these drugs varies among patients with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease due to individual genetic determinants.

Defining a transcriptional fingerprint of murine splenic B-cell development

B-cell development occurs in a stepwise fashion that can be followed by the expression of B cell-specific surface markers. In this study, we wished to identify proteins that could contribute to the changes in expression of such markers. By using RNA from freshly isolated B220+ cells, we hoped to reduce the effect of artifacts that occur during the isolation and amplification steps necessary to use flow cytometry analysis-sorted subsets in microarray experiments. Analyses comparing expression patterns from B220+ 2-week bone marrow (pro-B, pre-B, immature B cells), 2-week spleen (predominantly transitional cells) and 8-week spleen (mainly mature B cells) yielded hundreds of genes. We also examined the B cell-activating factor (BAFF)-dependent effects on immature splenic B cells by comparing expression patterns in the spleen between 2-week A/J vs 2-week A/WySnJ mice, which lack functional BAFF receptor signaling. Genes that showed the expression differences between spleen and bone marrow samples were then analyzed through quantitative PCR on B-cell subsets isolated using two different sorting protocols. A comparison of the results from our study with the results from other analyses showed not only some overlap of preferentially expressed genes but also an expansion of other genes potentially involved in B-cell development.

A network of Krüppel-like Factors (Klfs). Klf8 is repressed by Klf3 and activated by Klf1 in vivo

Transcription factors of the Sp/Klf (Krüppel-like factor) family regulate biological processes such as hematopoiesis, adipogenesis, and stem cell maintenance. Here we show that Bklf or Klf3 (Basic Krüppel-like factor) represses the Klf8 (Krüppel-like Factor 8) gene in vivo. Conversely, Eklf or Klf1 (Erythroid Krüppel-like factor) activates the Klf8 gene. Klf8 is driven by two promoters, both of which contain multiple CACCC sites. Klf3 can repress Klf1-mediated activation of both promoters. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments confirm that Klf3 occupies both Klf8 promoters in vivo. Interestingly, in Klf3 knock-out tissue Klf1 gains access, binds, and activates both Klf8 promoters. These results demonstrate direct competition between activating and repressing Klfs in vivo. Together with previous evidence that Klf1 directly activates the Klf3 gene, the results reveal an elaborate network of cross-talk within the Klf family. The recognition of cross-regulation and potential redundancy between Klf family members is critical to the interpretation of various Klf knock-out mice and the understanding of individual Klfs in particular contexts.

EKLF and KLF2 have compensatory roles in embryonic beta-globin gene expression and primitive erythropoiesis

The Krüppel-like C2/H2 zinc finger transcription factors (KLFs) control development and differentiation. Erythroid Krüppel-like factor (EKLF or KLF1) regulates adult beta-globin gene expression and is necessary for normal definitive erythropoiesis. KLF2 is required for normal embryonic Ey- and betah1-, but not adult betaglobin, gene expression in mice. Both EKLF and KLF2 play roles in primitive erythroid cell development. To investigate potential interactions between these genes, EKLF/KLF2 double-mutant embryos were analyzed. EKLF(-/-)KLF2(-/-) mice appear anemic at embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5) and die before E11.5, whereas single-knockout EKLF(-/-) or KLF2(-/-) embryos are grossly normal at E10.5 and die later than EKLF(-/-)KLF2(-/-) embryos. At E10.5, Ey- and betah1-globin mRNA is greatly reduced in EKLF(-/-)KLF2(-/-), compared with EKLF(-/-) or KLF2(-/-) embryos, consistent with the observed anemia. Light and electron microscopic analyses of E9.5 EKLF(-/-)KLF2(-/-) yolk sacs, and cytospins, indicate that erythroid and endothelial cells are morphologically more abnormal than in either single knockout. EKLF(-/-)KLF2(-/-) erythroid cells are markedly irregularly shaped, suggesting membrane abnormalities. EKLF and KLF2 may have coordinate roles in a common progenitor to erythroid and endothelial cells. The data indicate that EKLF and KLF2 have redundant functions in embryonic beta-like globin gene expression, primitive erythropoiesis, and endothelial development.

Human Krüppel-like factor 11 inhibits human proinsulin promoter activity in pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The Krüppel-like factor 11 (KLF11; TIEG2), a pancreas-enriched Sp1-like transcription factor, is a known negative regulator of pancreatic exocrine cell growth. A recent study indicated KLF11-induced activation of the human proinsulin promoter (hInsP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We investigated the functional role of KLF11 in pancreatic beta cells.

RESULTS

Endogenous KLF11 mRNA expression was found in whole rat pancreas, human pancreatic islets and INS-1E beta cells and was profoundly reduced by high glucose in INS-1E. Cotransfections of INS-1E and beta-TC3 beta cells with a human (h)KLF11 expression plasmid and an hInsP-driven reporter plasmid resulted in a substantial dose-dependent and glucose-independent inhibition of proinsulin promoter activity. 5'-deletion of hInsP demonstrated that hKLF11 acts via DNA sequences upstream of -173 and requires the beta cell-specific transcription machinery, since hKLF11-mediated inhibition of promoter activity was abolished in HEK293 cells. Besides a previously described GC box, we further identified a CACCC box within the hInsP, both putative KLF11-binding motifs. Electrophoretic mobility shift analysis (EMSA) verified binding of in vitro translated hKLF11 to the GC box, but neither hKLF11-induced inhibition nor basal hInsP activity was altered by mutation or 5'-deletion of the GC box. In contrast, CACCC box mutation substantially reduced basal promoter activity and partially diminished hKLF11 inhibition, although binding of in vitro translated hKLF11 to the CACCC box could not be verified by EMSA.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In rodent beta cell lines, we demonstrate hKLF11overexpression-mediated inhibition [corrected] of human proinsulin gene expression and characterise a prominent role for the CACCC box in maintaining basal proinsulin promoter activity.

Kruppel-like Factors (KLFs) in muscle biology

The Kruppel-like Factor (KLF) family of zinc-finger transcription factors are critical regulators of cell differentiation, phenotypic modulation and physiologic function. An emerging body of evidence implicates an important role for these factors in cardiovascular biology, however, the role of KLFs in muscle biology is only beginning to be understood. This article reviews the published data describing the role of KLFs in the heart, smooth muscle, and skeletal muscle and highlights the importance of these factors in cardiovascular development, physiology and disease pathobiology.

The transcription factor KLF11 can induce gamma-globin gene expression in the setting of in vivo adult erythropoiesis

Previous studies in a fetal erythroid cell line demonstrated that the transcription factor, Krüppel-like factor 11 (KLF11), could specifically induce transcription from a gamma-globin gene promoter, and that this induction was mediated through a specific canonical CACCC cis-DNA binding motif. We report here that ectopic expression of KLF11 can also induce fetal gamma-globin gene expression in the setting of adult erythropoiesis both in vitro and in vivo. Studies in an adult-stage murine erythroleukemia (MEL) cell line demonstrated that retrovirus vector-mediated transduction of KLF11 could increase both the amount of expression from a basally active, but not from a overtly silenced, recombinant gamma-globin transgene, as well as the frequency of cells expressing this transgene. A similar pattern of gamma-globin gene induction was also observed both in vitro and in vivo following KLF11 transduction of bone marrow from mice containing a basally active gamma-globin transgene. These studies provide the first evidence that ectopic expression of a transcription factor can induce gamma-globin gene expression in vivo during adult erythropoiesis.

Systematic RNAi studies on the role of Sp/KLF factors in globin gene expression and erythroid differentiation

Sp/KLF family of factors regulates gene expression by binding to the CACCC/GC/GT boxes in the DNA through their highly conserved three zinc finger domains. To investigate the role of this family of factors in erythroid differentiation and globin gene expression, we first measured the expression levels of selected Sp/KLF factors in primary cells of fetal and adult stages of erythroid development. This quantitative analysis revealed that their expression levels vary significantly in cells of either stages of the erythroid development. Significant difference in their expression levels was observed between fetal and adult erythroid cells for some Sp/KLF factors. Functional studies using RNA interference revealed that the silencing of Sp1 and KLF8 resulted in elevated level of gamma globin expression in K562 cells. In addition, K562 cells become visibly red after Sp1 knockdown. Benzidine staining revealed significant hemoglobinization of these cells, indicating erythroid differentiation. Moreover, the expression of PU.1, ETS1 and Notch1 is significantly down-regulated in the cells that underwent erythroid differentiation following Sp1 knockdown. Overexpression of PU.1 or ETS1 efficiently blocked the erythroid differentiation caused by Sp1 knockdown in K562 cells. The expression of c-Kit, however, was significantly up-regulated. These data indicate that Sp1 may play an important role in erythroid differentiation.

Tough beginnings: alterations in the transcriptome of cloned embryos during the first two cell cycles

Cloned embryos produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) display a plethora of phenotypic characteristics that make them different from fertilized embryos, indicating defects in the process of nuclear reprogramming by the recipient ooplasm. To elucidate the extent and timing of nuclear reprogramming, we used microarrays to analyze the transcriptome of mouse SCNT embryos during the first two cell cycles. We identified a large number of genes mis-expressed in SCNT embryos. We found that genes involved in transcription and regulation of transcription are prominent among affected genes, and thus may be particularly difficult to reprogram, and these likely cause a ripple effect that alters the transcriptome of many other functions, including oxidative phosphorylation, transport across membrane, and mRNA transport and processing. Interestingly, we also uncovered widespread alterations in the maternal (i.e., non-transcribed) mRNA population of SCNT embryos. We conclude that gene expression in early SCNT embryos is grossly abnormal, and that this is at least in part the result of incomplete reprogramming of transcription factor genes.

Identification of novel candidate genes for globin regulation in erythroid cells containing large deletions of the human β-globin gene cluster

The genetic mechanisms underlying the continued expression of the gamma-globin genes during the adult stage in deletional hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH) and deltabeta-thalassemias are not completely understood. Herein, we investigated the possible involvement of transcription factors, using the suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) method as an initial screen to identify differentially expressed transcripts in reticulocytes from a normal and a HPFH-2 subject. Some of the detectable transcripts may participate in globin gene regulation. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) experiments confirmed the downregulation of ZHX2, a transcriptional repressor, in two HPFH-2 subjects and in a carrier of the Sicilian deltabeta-thalassemia trait. The chromatin remodeling factors ARID1B and TSPYL1 had a very similar pattern of expression with an incremental increase in HPFH and decreased expression in deltabeta-thalassemia. These differences suggest a mechanism to explain the heterocellular and pancellular distribution of fetal hemoglobin in deltabeta-thalassemia and deletional HPFH, respectively. Interestingly, alpha-globin mRNA levels were decreased, similar to beta-globin in all reticulocyte samples analyzed.

Major erythrocyte membrane protein genes in EKLF-deficient mice

OBJECTIVES

Mice deficient in the transcription factor erythroid Krüppel-like factor, KLF1 (EKLF) die approximately 14.5 days postcoitum of anemia, attributed to decreased expression of the beta-globin gene. The objectives of this study were to rescue EKLF-deficient embryos with mice expressing gamma-globin from beta-spectrin or ankyrin promoters and to characterize expression of the major erythrocyte membrane genes in EKLF-deficient cells.

METHODS

Transgenic beta-spectrin/gamma-globin or ankyrin/gamma-globin mice were bred onto EKLF-deficient and wild-type backgrounds. Animals were genotyped, gamma-globin mRNA levels measured, and hemoglobin electrophoresis performed. Steady-state mRNA levels and transcriptional rates of the major erythrocyte membrane protein genes were assayed.

RESULTS

beta-spectrin/gamma-globin or ankyrin/gamma-globin mice on EKLF-deficient and wild-type backgrounds had identical levels of gamma-globin mRNA, indicating EKLF-independence of these promoters. gamma-Globin expression improved globin chain imbalance, but hemolysis was not improved and no live-born EKLF-deficient/(A)gamma-globin mice were obtained. Circulating erythroid cells from EKLF-deficient/(A)gamma-globin embryos exhibited hemolysis reminiscent of that seen in patients with severe erythrocyte membrane defects. Levels of beta-spectrin, ankyrin, and band 3 mRNA, but not alpha-spectrin, were decreased in EKLF-deficient fetal liver RNA. In a run-on assay, levels of transcription of the ankyrin and band 3 genes were decreased in EKLF-deficient fetal liver nuclei.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that the EKLF-responsive regions of the ankyrin and beta-spectrin genes are outside their promoters and that EKLF is necessary for full transcriptional activity of the ankyrin and band 3 genes; the results also provide additional evidence that defects in addition to beta-globin deficiency, including an abnormal erythrocyte membrane, contribute to the anemia and embryonic lethality in EKLF-deficient mice.

Alterations in expression and chromatin configuration of the alpha hemoglobin-stabilizing protein gene in erythroid Kruppel-like factor-deficient mice

Erythroid Krüppel-like factor (EKLF) is an erythroid zinc finger protein identified by its interaction with a CACCC sequence in the beta-globin promoter, where it establishes local chromatin structure permitting beta-globin gene transcription. We sought to identify other EKLF target genes and determine the chromatin status of these genes in the presence and absence of EKLF. We identified alpha hemoglobin-stabilizing protein (AHSP) by subtractive hybridization and demonstrated a 95 to 99.9% reduction in AHSP mRNA and the absence of AHSP in EKLF-deficient cells. Chromatin at the AHSP promoter from EKLF-deficient cells lacked a DNase I hypersensitive site and exhibited histone hypoacetylation across the locus compared to hyperacetylation of wild-type chromatin. Wild-type chromatin demonstrated a peak of EKLF binding over a promoter region CACCC box that differs from the EKLF consensus by a nucleotide. In mobility shift assays, the AHSP promoter CACCC site bound EKLF in a manner comparable to the beta-globin promoter CACCC site, indicating a broader recognition sequence for the EKLF consensus binding site. The AHSP promoter was transactivated by EKLF in K562 cells, which lack EKLF. These results support the hypothesis that EKLF acts as a transcription factor and a chromatin modulator for the AHSP and beta-globin genes and indicate that EKLF may play similar roles for other erythroid genes.

KLF5 Interacts with p53 in Regulating Survivin Expression in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The Kruppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) is a transcription factor that regulates cellular signaling involved in cell proliferation and oncogenesis. Here, we report that KLF5 interacts with tumor suppressor p53 in regulating the expression of the inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein survivin, which may play a role in pathological process of cancer. The core promoter region of survivin contains multiple GT-boxes that have been characterized as KLF5 response elements. Deletion and mutation analyses as well as chromatin immunoprecipitation and electronic mobility shift assay indicated that KLF5 binds to the core survivin promoter and strongly induces its activity. Furthermore, we demonstrated that KLF5 protein is able to bind to p53 and abrogate the p53-regulated repression of survivin. Transfection of KLF5 into a KLF5-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line EU-8 enhanced survivin expression, and conversely, silencing of KLF5 by small interfering RNA in a KLF5-overexpressing acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line EU-4 down-regulated survivin expression. The KLF5 small interfering RNA-mediated down-regulation of survivin sensitized EU-4 cells to apoptosis induced by chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin. These findings identify a novel regulatory pathway for the expression of survivin under the control of KLF5 and p53. Deregulation of this pathway may result in overexpression of survivin in cancer, thus contributing to drug resistance.