Abstract
The sine oculis (SIX) family of transcription factors are key regulators of developmental processes during embryogenesis. Members of this family control gene expression to promote self-renewal of progenitor cell populations and govern mechanisms of cell differentiation. When the function of SIX genes becomes disrupted, distinct congenital defects develops both in animal models and humans. In addition to the embryonic setting, members of the SIX family have been found to be critical regulators of tumorigenesis, promoting cell proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and metastasis. Research in both the fields of developmental biology and cancer research have provided an extensive understanding of SIX family transcription factor functions. Here we review recent progress in elucidating the role of SIX family genes in congenital disease as well as in the promotion of cancer. Common themes arise when comparing SIX transcription factor function during embryonic and cancer development. We highlight the complementary nature of these two fields and how knowledge in one area can open new aspects of experimentation in the other.
Highlights
The sine oculis (SIX) homeobox family of transcription factors play important developmental roles in a wide range of species from fruit flies to humans
SIX2, like SIX1, overexpression was detected in breast cancer (Wang et al, 2014; Oliphant et al, 2019) and appeared to promote increased survival, self-renewal, and metastasis of tumor cells (Table 2)
Several common functions and modes of regulation have been identified for SIX genes, not just amongst family members, and between roles during embryonic and cancer development (Table 3)
Summary
The sine oculis (SIX) homeobox family of transcription factors play important developmental roles in a wide range of species from fruit flies to humans. SIX2, like SIX1, overexpression was detected in breast cancer (Wang et al, 2014; Oliphant et al, 2019) and appeared to promote increased survival, self-renewal, and metastasis of tumor cells (Table 2).
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