Our results suggest that Itch functions as a novel modulator of Glis3-mediated transcriptional regulation and as such might modulate Glis3 target genes in cells in which it plays a critical role, such as the regulation of pancreatic beta cell generation and insulin gene expression as well as in Glis3-associated diseases, such as type 1 and 2 diabetes, and polycystic kidney disease. This evidence concerns the gene GLIS3 and polycystic kidney disease.