AUTHOR=Liu Na , Zhang Jin , Wang Pingping , Jin Shuyu , Yang Chunjuan , Yan Xinyi , Xu Jing , Wang Hui , Sun Wenchang , Xu Donghua 

TITLE=Transcription factor c-Maf: a checkpoint that programs autoimmunity

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Immunology

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1682098

DOI=10.3389/fimmu.2025.1682098

ISSN=1664-3224

ABSTRACT=The transcription factor c-Maf, a member of the Maf family characterized by its basic domain and b-Zip DNA-binding motif, is a pivotal regulator of immune cells development and function. It governs immune cells growth, differentiation, function, and immune responses. This review explores the mechanistic role of c-Maf and its associated signaling networks in modulating autoimmunity and inflammation. We highlight its dual function as an immune checkpoint that suppresses pathological inflammation while promoting protective immunity, underscoring its therapeutic potential in autoimmune diseases.