Dysregulated Krüppel-Like Factor 4 and Vitamin D Receptor Signaling Contribute to Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

KLF4 binds to the promoter of VDR to regulate its expression; levels of KLF4 are reduced and levels of VDR are increased in HCC cell lines and primary tumor samples. Expression of KLF4 in HCC cells sensitizes them to the anti-proliferative effects of VD3. This pathway might be manipulated to prevent or treat liver cancer.