Sp-family of transcription factors regulates human SHIP2 gene expression

We have characterized the regulation of human SH-2 containing inositol 5′-phosphatase 2 (SHIP2) gene expression. First, the transcription initiation sites and the sequence of the 5′ upstream region of human SHIP2 gene were elucidated. Next, the minimal promoter of the human SHIP2 gene was identified by reporter gene assays in HL60 cells and differentiated human subcutaneous white adipocytes. An Sp1 element proximal to the transcription initiation site was indispensable for full promoter activity and bound specifically by Sp1 and Sp3 proteins. These findings suggest that human SHIP2 gene expression, like other housekeeping genes, is controlled by the Sp-family of transcription factors.