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Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Mapping the Structure-Function Relationships of Disordered Oncogenic Transcription Factors Using Transcriptomic Analysis
Published on: June 27, 2020
The Transcription Factor PLZF Is Necessary for the Development and Function of Mouse Basophils
Sai Zhang1,2, Joshua A Vieth1, Agata Krzyzanowska1,2
1Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901.
Abstract:
Basophils are innate immune cells associated with type 2 immunity, allergic reactions, and host defense against parasite infections. In this study, we show that the transcription factor PLZF, which is known for its essential role in the function and development of several innate lymphocyte subsets, is also important for the myeloid-derived basophil lineage. PLZF-deficient mice had decreased numbers of basophil progenitors in the bone marrow and mature basophils in multiple peripheral tissues. Functionally, PLZF-deficient basophils were less responsive to IgE activation and produced reduced amounts of IL-4. The altered function of basophils resulted in a blunted Th2 T cell response to a protein allergen. Additionally, PLZF-deficient basophils had reduced expression of the IL-18 receptor, which impacted migration to lungs. PLZF, therefore, is a major player in controlling type 2 immune responses mediated not only by innate lymphocytes but also by myeloid-derived cells.
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