Transcription factor SOX-18 (SOX18)

Transcription factor SOX-18 is a key regulator of vascular and lymphatic development, belonging to the SOXF subgroup of the SRY-related HMG-box family (UniProt P35713). It functions primarily by binding to specific DNA sequences to modulate the transcription of genes essential for endothelial cell fate and vessel assembly (PubMed: 28249918). While its expression is largely restricted during adulthood, SOX18 is frequently upregulated in various cancers, where it drives tumor-induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, thereby promoting tumor growth and metastatic spread (PubMed: 24631377). Mutations in SOX18 are the underlying cause of Hypotrichosis-lymphedema-telangiectasia syndrome, highlighting its importance in maintaining vascular integrity and hair follicle development (PubMed: 12652297). Therapeutic strategies targeting SOX18 involve small molecule inhibitors, such as Sm04703, which disrupt its transcriptional activity by interfering with its DNA binding or protein-protein interactions (PubMed: 28249918). By inhibiting SOX18, researchers aim to starve tumors of their blood supply and block the lymphatic routes used for metastasis, offering a novel approach to cancer therapy.

Other names

SRY-box transcription factor 18SRY-box 18SOX18

Small molecule inhibition of SOX18 transcriptional activity by disrupting its binding to DNA or interfering with essential protein-protein interactions required for its function as a transcriptional activator (PubMed: 28249918).