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FOXK1: a multifaceted regulator in metabolic reprogramming and disease progression
Tingting He1, Guangzhi Ma2, Gang Yuan3
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China. 305795664@qq.com.
Biology Direct
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) is a key regulator of cell functions. Dysregulation of FOXK1 contributes to diseases like cancer, making it a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) is a transcription factor regulating metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, and stress adaptation.
- FOXK1 activity is controlled by complex genetic, epigenetic, and post-translational mechanisms.
- Disrupted FOXK1 regulation can lead to disease, particularly cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review FOXK1's structure, regulation, and roles in health and disease.
- To discuss FOXK1's oncogenic functions in cancer.
- To explore FOXK1's involvement in non-oncological diseases and its therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of FOXK1 research.
- Analysis of FOXK1's regulatory networks.
- Synthesis of data on FOXK1's physiological and pathological roles.
Main Results:
- FOXK1 acts as an oncogene in cancer, promoting key hallmarks like metabolic reprogramming, EMT, and therapeutic resistance.
- Emerging evidence links FOXK1 to metabolic disorders, inflammation, reproductive issues, and neurological conditions.
- FOXK1's central role in disease pathways positions it as a significant therapeutic target.
Conclusions:
- FOXK1 is a crucial regulator with context-dependent functions in various diseases.
- Targeting FOXK1 offers a promising strategy for developing novel therapeutics.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges in clinical translation of FOXK1-targeted therapies.
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