SOX gene family
SOX Gene Family
The SOX gene family (pronounced /sɒks/ gene family) is a group of genes that play a crucial role in the regulation of embryonic development and in the determination of cell fate. The name "SOX" is derived from the high-mobility group (HMG) box domain that these genes share, which is similar to the HMG box domain in the sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene.
Etymology
The term "SOX" is an acronym for Sex-determining region Of X chromosome. The SOX genes were named due to their similarity to the SRY gene, which is responsible for determining sex in mammals.
Function
The SOX gene family encodes a series of transcription factors that bind to the minor groove of DNA, altering its structure and regulating gene expression. These genes are involved in a variety of biological processes, including cell differentiation, embryonic development, and the determination of cell fate.
Members of the SOX Gene Family
The SOX gene family is divided into nine groups, from SOX A to SOX I, based on the sequence similarity and structural features of the HMG box. Some of the most well-known members of the SOX gene family include:
- SOX2: This gene is involved in maintaining the pluripotency of stem cells.
- SOX9: This gene plays a key role in sex determination and skeletal development.
- SOX10: This gene is essential for the development of neural crest cells and melanocytes.
Related Terms
- Transcription factor: A protein that controls the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA.
- High-mobility group: Proteins that bind to DNA and influence its structure to regulate gene expression.
- Cell differentiation: The process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type.
- Embryonic development: The process by which the embryo forms and develops.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on SOX gene family
- Wikipedia's article - SOX gene family
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