Gene expression profiling reveals a novel regulatory role for Sox21 protein in mouse trophoblast stem cell differentiation

Abstract

Background: Transcriptional networks in mouse trophoblast stem cells differentiation are not fully characterized. Results: Changes in Sox21 gene expression modulate lineage-specific markers during trophoblast stem cell differentiation. Conclusion: The expression levels of Sox21 need to be tightly regulated to achieve the right balance of terminally differentiated trophoblast cells. Significance: This is the first study showing expression and function of Sox21 in mouse placenta and trophoblast stem cells.