SRY-box transcription factor 7 (SOX7)

SRY-box transcription factor 7 (SOX7) is a member of the SOX (SRY-related HMG-box) family of transcription factors, playing crucial roles in the regulation of embryonic development, cell fate determination, and vascular development. SOX7 functions as a transcriptional regulator, activating or repressing gene transcription through DNA binding via its high-mobility group (HMG) box domain. It is especially important in hematopoiesis, vasculogenesis, cardiogenesis, and the specification of vascular and cardiac endothelial cell identities. Loss or reduction of SOX7 expression is linked to tumorigenesis—SOX7 acts as an inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and is notable for its tumor-suppressive properties, with downregulation observed in multiple cancers. In animal studies, SOX7 deletion leads to severe developmental defects and embryonic lethality, underscoring its essential role in development. While SOX7 and related proteins (SOX17, SOX18) may have overlapping functions, SOX7 also displays unique regulatory roles, particularly in endothelial and cardiovascular tissues.

Other names

Transcription factor SOX-7SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 7SRY-box 7SOX7transcription factor SOX-7

Not applicable; SOX7 is not a direct therapeutic target and there are no approved drugs known to functionally target SOX7 in the clinic.