Targeting DAX-1 in embryonic stem cells and cancer

Abstract

Importance of the field: DAX-1 (NR0B1) is an unusual orphan nuclear receptor whose function is essential for the development of the human adrenal cortex and onset of puberty. Recent data have implicated this transcription factor also in embryonic stem cell and cancer biology.

Areas covered in this review: The role of DAX-1 in the regulation of development and function of the adrenal cortex, reproductive axis, embryonic stem cells and a few types of cancer.

What the reader will gain: Here we review the past and present milestones in DAX-1 research and try to provide hints about the development and fields of application of DAX-1-targeted drugs in the future.

Take home message: The unusual structure and restricted expression pattern of DAX-1 may offer unique opportunities for drug discovery.

Keywords::

• cancer
• nuclear receptors
• stem cells
• transcription factors

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to A El Wakil for providing the immunohistochemistry images shown in Figure 2.

Notes

This box summarises key points contained in the article.