TRIB2 regulates the differentiation of MLL-TET1 transduced myeloid progenitor cells

The function and mechanism of action of MLL-TET1 (MT1) fusion protein in hematological cells are unclear and require further investigation. In the present study, we found that the MT1 fusion protein attenuated the expression of Cebpa, Csf1r, and Cd11b and inhibited the differentiation of myeloid progenitor cells. Increased binding of the MT1 fusion protein to the Trib2 promoter upregulated Trib2 mRNA and protein expression and downregulated Cebpa expression. Trib2 knockdown relieved the inhibition of myeloid cell differentiation induced by the MT1 fusion protein. Thus, TRIB2 is important for the survival of leukemia cells during MT1-related leukemogenesis and is important in maintaining differentiation blockade of leukemic cells. KEY MESSAGES: • MLL-TET1 fusion decreases the 5-hmC levels in the myeloid progenitor cells. • MLL-TET1 fusion inhibits myeloid differentiation through decreased expression of Cebpa. • MLL-TET1 fusion blocks the differentiation of the myeloid progenitor cells by overexpressing Trib2. • Knockdown of Trib2 in MLL-TET1 transduced cells induces myeloid differentiation.