Logo image
MEF2: a central regulator of diverse developmental programs
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

MEF2: a central regulator of diverse developmental programs

Matthew J Potthoff and Eric N Olson
Development (Cambridge), Vol.134(23), pp.4131-4140
12/2007
DOI: 10.1242/dev.008367
PMID: 17959722
url
https://doi.org/10.1242/dev.008367View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

The myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factor acts as a lynchpin in the transcriptional circuits that control cell differentiation and organogenesis. The spectrum of genes activated by MEF2 in different cell types depends on extracellular signaling and on co-factor interactions that modulate MEF2 activity. Recent studies have revealed MEF2 to form an intimate partnership with class IIa histone deacetylases, which together function as a point of convergence of multiple epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. We review the myriad roles of MEF2 in development and the mechanisms through which it couples developmental, physiological and pathological signals with programs of cell-specific transcription.
Signal Transduction Humans MADS Domain Proteins - genetics Embryonic Development - physiology Histone Deacetylases - metabolism Transcription Factors - genetics MADS Domain Proteins - metabolism Transcription Factors - metabolism Animals Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental Yeasts - growth & development Conserved Sequence Transcription, Genetic Organogenesis - physiology

Details

Metrics

Logo image