Homeobox protein NANOG

Homeobox protein NANOG is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NANOG gene. It is a transcription factor necessary for maintaining the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells.

Function

The NANOG protein interacts with other transcription factors, including Oct-4 and Sox2, to activate genes that promote stem cell self-renewal and inhibit genes that promote cell differentiation. This interaction is crucial for maintaining the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells, which is their ability to develop into any cell type in the body.

Structure

The NANOG protein contains a homeobox domain, a sequence of about 60 amino acids that binds to specific DNA sequences in the genes it regulates. This domain is highly conserved, meaning it is similar in many different species, indicating its importance in cellular function.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the NANOG gene or changes in its expression levels have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer. Overexpression of NANOG has been observed in various types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer, and is associated with poor prognosis.

Research

Research on the NANOG protein and its role in stem cell pluripotency has potential applications in regenerative medicine, where it could be used to generate specific cell types for transplantation.

See also

• Homeobox
• Pluripotency
• Stem cell