The Helios protein belongs to the Ikaros family of zinc finger proteins, which are hematopoietic-specific transcription factors involved in the regulation of lymphocyte development. The Helios protein serves as an epigenetic regulator, selectively expressing some genes while suppressing others. It influences gene expression by modulating chromatin structure, thereby controlling DNA accessibility. This regulatory mechanism is vital for normal cell growth and differentiation. The Helios protein exhibits a unique dual role in leukemia. Its deficiency has been linked to the development of acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), while its overexpression promotes acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
中文
