The RNA-binding protein QKI5 is a direct target of C/EBPα and delays macrophage differentiation.

ABSTRACT: Differentiated macrophages are essential for the innate immune system; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the generation of macrophages remain largely unknown. Here we show that the RNA-binding protein QKI, mainly QKI-5, is transcriptionally activated in the early differentiated monocytic progenitors when CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) α is expressed. The forced expression of C/EBPα increases the endogenous expression of QKI. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis and reporter assays further confirm that C/EBPα activates the transcription of QKI, primarily by binding to the distal C/EBPα-binding site. Blocking the induction of QKI using RNA interference enhances the expression of endogenous CSF1R and facilitates macrophage differentiation. Further study of the mechanism r

SUBMITTER: Fu H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3338430 | biostudies-literature | 2012 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature