Znf45l affects primitive hematopoiesis by regulating transforming growth factor-β signaling

Znf45l, containing classical C2H2 domains, is a novel member of Zinc finger proteins in zebrafish. In vertebrates, TGF-β signaling plays a critical role in hematopoiesis. Here, we showed that Znf45l is expressed both maternally and zygotically throughout early development. Znf45l-depleted Zebrafish embryos display shorter tails and necrosis with reduced expression of hematopoietic maker genes. Furthermore, we revealed that znf45l locates downstream of TGF-β ligands and maintains normal level of TGF-β receptor type II phosphorylation. In brief, our results indicate that znf45l affects initial hematopoietic development through regulation of TGF-β signaling.