The expression of BCL11A, KLF1, and ERK of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway on stem cell factor and erythropoietin-treated K562 cells

Background: Currently, the high expression of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in sickle cell disease is treated by hydroxyurea (HU). However, potential adverse effect regarding the use of HU is a major concern. Therefore, the search for an alternative therapeutic agent is necessary. By using K562 cells as a model, this research aimed to determine the effect of erythropoietin (EPO) and stem cell factor (SCF) combination therapy on the expression of BCL11A, KLF1, and the ERK of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Methods: K562 cells were treated with SCF, EPO, and a combination of SCF and EPO for 24 h. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect γ-globin mRNA expression. Western blotting was performed to determine the expression of BCL11A, KLF1, and ERK of the MAPK pathway. Results: In contrast to HU, the treatment with SCF and EPO, either separately or together, preserved the expression of the γ-globin gene. In addition, SCF and EPO treatment had no effect on the expression of BCL11A or KLF1 in K562 cells. After receiving SCF and EPO treatment, the ERK signaling of the MAPK remained unaltered. Conclusions: We conclude that the expression of the γ-globin gene, BCL11A, KLF1, and ERK of the MAPK pathway is unaffected by the combination of EPO and SCF.