The mechanisms of tumor necrosis factor α in regulating Krüpple‐like factor 4 expression in SK‐BR‐3 breast cancer cells

Abstract Objective To explore the expression and functional role of Krüpple‐like factor 4 (KLF4) protein stimulated by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in SK‐BR‐3 breast cancer cells. Methods SK‐BR‐3 cells were stimulated with various concentrations of TNF‐α at 0, 1, 5, 10, and 20 ng/mL. Expression levels of KLF4 protein were detected by Western blotting. In the detection of apoptosis, flow cytometry, and DAPI staining were used for detecting the level of apoptosis. Results KLF4 expression was markedly elevated following stimulation of SK‐BR‐3 with TNF‐α. At the same time, the expression of KLF4 protein increased gradually with the increase of TNF‐α stimulation concentration. TNF‐α stimulation of SK‐BR‐3 cells increased apoptosis as measured by apoptosis levels. By overexpressing KLF4 protein in SK‐BR‐3 cells, it similarly increased apoptosis and promoted cell death of SK‐BR‐3 cells. Conclusion TNF‐α promotes KLF4 expression, while TNF‐α promotes apoptosis in SK‐BR‐3 cells, a process that may be due to elevated KLF4 protein expression.