Transcription factors in the ear: molecular switches for development and differentiation

Abstract

In order to understand the molecular events underlying differentiation and development in the inner ear, we need to identify and characterize the molecular 'switches' involved in the regulation of gene expression in the system. The most important molecular regulators are represented by a family of proteins generically called transcription factors. This article reviews our current knowledge of the expression of several transcription factors in the ear and their implications for both development and homeostasis in the auditory organs.