SKN2

SKN2, also known as Suppressor of Hairless 2, is a gene that plays a role in developmental processes in certain organisms. It belongs to the bHLH (basic helix-loop-helix) family of transcription factors, which are proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences to regulate gene expression. In organisms like the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, SKN2 is involved in neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons. It functions within a signaling pathway that influences cell fate decisions during nervous system development.

The SKN2 protein is thought to interact with other proteins in the cell to form complexes that can either activate or repress the transcription of target genes. Its precise role can vary depending on the cellular context and the specific developmental stage. Research into SKN2 has contributed to a broader understanding of how gene regulation orchestrates the complex events of embryonic development, particularly in the formation of the nervous system. Studies have investigated its interactions with other key developmental genes and its potential involvement in maintaining stem cell populations. Understanding the function of SKN2 can provide insights into developmental disorders and the mechanisms of cell differentiation.