KLF11

KLF11 (Kruppel-like factor 11) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KLF11 gene. This gene is a member of the Kruppel-like factor family of transcription factors, which are known to play critical roles in regulating gene expression during cell differentiation and development.

Function

KLF11 is involved in the regulation of insulin gene expression and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It acts as a transcriptional repressor by binding to GC-rich sequences in the promoter regions of target genes. KLF11 has also been shown to interact with histone deacetylases (HDACs), which are involved in chromatin remodeling and gene silencing.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the KLF11 gene have been associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that certain polymorphisms in the KLF11 gene can affect its ability to regulate insulin gene expression, leading to impaired glucose homeostasis.

Interactions

KLF11 interacts with several other proteins, including:

• Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1)
• Histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3)
• Sin3A

These interactions are important for its function as a transcriptional repressor.

Research

Research on KLF11 continues to explore its role in metabolic diseases and its potential as a therapeutic target. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which KLF11 regulates gene expression could lead to new strategies for the treatment of diabetes and other related conditions.

See also

• Transcription factor
• Gene regulation
• Diabetes mellitus

External links

• KLF11 gene information at NCBI
• KLF11 protein information at UniProt