SOX22 is a new member of the SOX gene family, mainly expressed in human nervous tissue

Abstract

SOX (SRY box-containing) genes share a particular DNA-binding domain, called HMG, with the mammalian testis-determining gene SRY. Several SOX genes have already been shown to be transcription factors involved in the decision of important cell fates during development. Here we report the cloning of a new human member of the SOX gene family, SOX22. The corresponding protein contains several domains that are also present in other paralogous SOX proteins. The SOX22 gene maps to chromosome 20 on band p13 and does not appear to be clustered with any other SOX gene mapped to date. SOX22 mRNA is expressed in various fetal and adult organs and tissues, suggesting that this gene plays roles in both differentiation and maintenance of several cell types.