Klf11 gene

The gene KLF11 (Kruppel Like Factor 11) encodes a zinc finger transcription factor and is located on the short arm of chromosome 2 (2p250) (Scohy S et al. 2000). The transcription factor KLF11 regulates the transcription of genes involved in insulin production and secretion in pancreatic beta cells. If mutations in the KLF11 gene are present, pathologically reduced insulin production occurs, resulting in the clinical picture MODY 7.

One of the functions of KLF11, apart from regulating the expression of the insulin gene, is the activation of the transcription factor IPF1, which is encoded by the PDX1 gene. IPF1 plays a crucial role in the development and function of the pancreas and pancreatic beta cells. Mutations in the PDX1 gene lead to the clinical picture MODY 4, which is autosomal dominant.

1. Neve B et al (2005) Role of transcription factor KLF11 and its diabetes-associated gene variants in pancreatic beta cell function. Proc Nat Acad Sci 102: 4807-4812