CRISPR screening is a powerful tool to reveal unknown gene functions. In this nature’s study, Dr. Dapeng Yang et al. performed genome-scale CRISPR screening to uncover that HHEX, a transcription factor (TF) widely recognized as a key regulator of liver development, acts as a gatekeeper in pancreatic lineage specification. This finding provides a generalizable model for how gatekeeper TFs like HHEX orchestrate lineage commitment and plasticity restriction in broad developmental contexts, with implications for stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and tumor cell plasticity. Check out this new publication.
Bon Opus Activin Ais used in Dr. Yang’s study to induce definitive endoderm (DE) differentiation. Recombinant Activin A has a wide range of applications, as it is involved in organ development, inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis.
