Purpose of review: To describe recent studies on Krüppel-like factor transcription factors and their relationship with gastrointestinal neoplasias, in particular pancreatic cancer.
Recent findings: Krüppel-like factor proteins are a subfamily of transcription factors characterized by the presence of a conserved DNA-binding domain comprising three Krüppel-like zinc fingers. Each distinct family member differs in its ability to regulate transcription, and, as a consequence, to influence cellular processes including cell growth and differentiation. Recently, a number of publications have provided evidence of the implication of Krüppel-like factor proteins in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis.
Summary: This article will focus on the results of studies in the field published in the last year.