Forkhead family transcription factor FoxO and neural differentiation

Neurogenetics. 2012 May;13(2):105-13. doi: 10.1007/s10048-012-0320-2. Epub 2012 Mar 28.

Abstract

The Forkhead Box subgroup O (FoxO) transcription factor family is one of the most important downstream targets of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway playing an important role in many biological functions including transcriptional regulation of cellular differentiation. Neuronal differentiation is a complex process which involves many signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms. Interestingly, recent studies indicate that the FoxO family is involved in a number of signaling pathways regulating cell differentiation. The actions occur at different stages in the differentiation process and by differing mechanisms. This review will focus on FoxO as a novel transcription factor in neural differentiation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Neurons / cytology*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Forkhead Transcription Factors
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases