KLF1 regulates BCL11A expression and gamma- to beta-globin gene switching

Nat Genet. 2010 Sep;42(9):742-4. doi: 10.1038/ng.637. Epub 2010 Aug 1.

Abstract

We show that knockdown of KLF1 in human and mouse adult erythroid progenitors markedly reduces BCL11A levels and increases human gamma-globin/beta-globin expression ratios. These results suggest that KLF1 controls globin gene switching by directly activating beta-globin and indirectly repressing gamma-globin gene expression. Controlled knockdown of KLF1 in adult erythroid progenitors may provide a method to activate fetal hemoglobin expression in individuals with beta-thalassemia or sickle cell disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Adult Stem Cells / physiology
  • Animals
  • Carrier Proteins / genetics*
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Embryo, Mammalian
  • Erythropoiesis / genetics
  • Erythropoiesis / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Genes, Switch / physiology
  • Humans
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors / physiology*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Nuclear Proteins / genetics*
  • Nuclear Proteins / metabolism
  • Repressor Proteins
  • beta-Globins / genetics*
  • gamma-Globins / genetics*

Substances

  • BCL11A protein, human
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Repressor Proteins
  • beta-Globins
  • erythroid Kruppel-like factor
  • gamma-Globins