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

Biochemistry (Mosc). 2020 Jan;85(1):54-67. doi: 10.1134/S0006297920010058.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells / cytology
  • Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors / immunology*
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors / physiology*
  • Leukocytes / cytology
  • Leukocytes / immunology*
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases / metabolism
  • NF-kappa B / metabolism
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • KLF2 protein, human
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors
  • NF-kappa B
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins