# MAFB: a key regulator of myeloid commitment involved in hematological diseases

## TL;DR

The MAFB protein regulates myeloid cell development and is linked to blood-related diseases and cancers.

## Contribution

This review highlights MAFB's role in myeloid differentiation and its implications in hematological diseases.

## Key findings

- MAFB is critical for monocyte and macrophage differentiation from progenitor cells.
- Aberrant MAFB activity is linked to diseases like multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia.
- MAFB and its targets are potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer.

## Abstract

The MAFB protein, a member of the MAF family of bZip transcription factors, plays a pivotal role in various biological processes, including cell differentiation, development, and homeostasis. Characterized by its selective expression in monocytes and macrophages, MAFB has been shown to play a crucial role during myeloid lineage differentiation, acting as a critical determinant in the transition from multipotent progenitors to fully differentiated monocytes. By modulating the expression of genes associated with immune activation and inflammation, MAFB plays a vital role in maintaining immune homeostasis and responding to pathogenic challenges. Dysregulation of MAFB expression or function has been implicated in several pathological conditions, including hematological malignancies and metabolic disorders. In particular, aberrant MAFB activity has been associated with the progression of diseases such as multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia as well as other solid tumors, where it may contribute to the survival and proliferation of malignant cells, thereby promoting disease progression. MAFB and downstream targets of its transcriptional network are now being regarded as predictive biomarkers for certain types of tumors as well as being considered as potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on both physiological and pathological roles of MAFB and highlight the impact of its deregulation on hematological cancer initiation and progression.