Genome-wide transcription factor localization and function in stem cells

Excerpt

Stem cells are biologically and clinically important cells characterized by their ability to self-renew or differentiate into many cell types. The decision between self-renewal and differentiation is governed by extracellular signals, coupled to intracellular signaling cascades which activate transcription programs. Hence, transcription regulation plays a determining role in conferring cellular identity and function. As intrinsic determinants, transcription factors provide an entry point for uncovering how stem cells attain their phenotype, and how lineage-specific differentiation is initiated. The step-wise maturation of stem cells into terminally differentiated cell types requires the timely activation of a cascade of transcription programs governed by lineage-specifying transcription factors. The identification of key regulators in the hierarchy and their targets can provide clues into the manipulation of stem cells. This review examines the role of key transcription factors in various stem cell types, and emphasizes on their control of downstream gene expression, which ultimately contributes to cellular function.