ZBTB

ZBTB, or zinc finger and BTB-domain-containing proteins, is a large family of transcription factors found in metazoans. Members typically regulate gene expression by combining DNA binding through C2H2 zinc finger arrays with transcriptional repression mediated by an N-terminal BTB/POZ domain.

Most ZBTB proteins act as transcriptional repressors by recruiting corepressors such as NCoR/SMRT and histone deacetylases, and by forming dimers via the BTB domain. Some members can also function as transcriptional activators in certain contexts or participate in chromatin remodeling.

They play crucial roles in development, cell differentiation, and lineage commitment, especially in the immune system and hematopoietic lineages.

Dysregulation of ZBTB factors has been linked to cancer, immune disorders, and developmental abnormalities. ZBTB proteins can act as tumor suppressors or, in other settings, as oncogenic drivers.

Representative members include ZBTB16 (PLZF), ZBTB33 (Kaiso), and ZBTB7A (LRF).

The family is conserved across vertebrates; the specific repertoire and functions vary between species.