Role of the E26 transformation specific transcription factor family in metabolic disorders

Metabolic homeostasis is precisely regulated by transcription factors. Over the past two decades, the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) transcription factor family has been implicated in a variety of physiological and pathological processes through regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. However, new evidence indicates that members of the ETS transcription factor family are closely related to metabolism and metabolic diseases, exhibiting functional heterogeneity in metabolic regulation: some members drive metabolic disorders, while others play a compensatory protective role. This review focuses on ETS1 and ETV5, which are among the most intensively studied transcription factors in the field. ETS1 promotes weight gain primarily by inhibiting beige adipocyte formation and adipocyte thermogenesis, Additionally, it promotes hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammation, thereby aggravating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Moreover, ETV5 is generally anti-inflammatory and has profound effects on lipolysis. As new data on the role of other ETS transcription factor family members in metabolic homeostasis continue to emerge, their importance in the study of metabolic diseases is becoming increasingly evident. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of the ETS family in metabolism, thereby facilitating the development of novel therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases involving the ETS family.