HMBOX1, homeobox transcription factor, negatively regulates interferon-γ production in natural killer cells

► Transcription of HMBOX1 was decreased in cytokine activated NK cells, opposite to the IFN-γ. ► Over-expression of HMBOX1 inhibited the expression of IFN-γ in NK cells. ► HMBOX1 suppressed the transcription activity of IFN-γ promoter. ► HMBOX1 may function as negative regulator of IFN-γ in NK cells.