Kruppel-Like Factor 4, a Hub Gate for Cell Crosstalk in Tumor Microenvironment.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is a zinc finger transcription factor that plays context-dependent roles in cancer. It functions as either a tumor suppressor or an oncogene depending on tumor type and cellular context. This review aimed to comprehensively summarize the roles of KLF4 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature review to elucidate the expression patterns, regulatory mechanisms, and functional roles of KLF4 across different TME components, including cancer cells, immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, pericytes, and extracellular matrix.

Results

KLF4 exhibits dual roles in cancer cells, acting as a tumor suppressor in gastric, lung, and pancreatic can

SUBMITTER: Tang M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12800926 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature