Transcription Factors in Sertoli Cells

Publisher Summary

This chapter discusses the role of transcription factors in regulating Sertoli cell-specific gene expression. Transcription factors are DNA binding proteins (trans-acting) that bind to DNA regulatory elements located cis to the target genes. Transcription factors are generally considered final targets of signal-transduction pathways. The level of expression of transcription factors and their activities determines whether their target genes are transcribed and to what extent. These regulators of gene expression in turn are tightly regulated by a multitude of signaling pathways influenced by cell–cell interaction, growth factors, hormones, extracellular matrix, and the stage of development. Alterations in the transcriptional regulation of the Sertoli cell determine changes in cellular differentiation and function. The functional and developmental changes associated with Sertoli cell differentiation and functions are a result of stage-specific activation/repression of specific transcription factors. Some of these transcription factors such as Sry and DAX-1are expressed only during a particular stage of development.