Disclosed are methods of altering expression of a gene with a promoter region CTCF binding site. Also disclosed are compositions and methods useful for treating a disease or condition involving over-expression or under-expression of a gene with a promoter region CTCF binding site. Further disclosed are cells and non-human animals with modified a promoter region CTCF binding site, as well as methods for screening for compounds that can modify the expression of a gene with a promoter region CTCF binding site.