KLF4 overexpression facilitates proliferation and represses apoptosis of granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is defined as a complex endocrinopathy greatly affecting reproductive-aged women. Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) are involved in female reproduction.ObjectivesOur study expounded the functions of KLF4 on proliferation and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) in PCOS via regulating Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2).ResultsKLF4 and RUNX2 were under-expressed in testosterone (TTR)-induced KGN cell models. KLF4 overexpression facilitated KGN cell proliferation and suppressed KGN cell apoptosis. KLF4 bound to the RUNX2 promoter and increased RUNX2 expression level. Furthermore, RUNX2 suppression counteracted the functions of KLF4 overexpression on KGN cells.ConclusionKLF4 overexpression promoted RUNX2 expression by binding to the RUNX2 promoter, thereby further accelerating GC proliferation and repressing GC apoptosis in PCOS.