Twist family bHLH transcription factor 1 (TWIST1)

TWIST1, or Twist family bHLH transcription factor 1, is a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor essential for embryonic development, regulating genes involved in cranial suture closure, neural tube formation, limb patterning, and mesenchymal stem cell lineage decisions[6][3][4]. It functions as either a homodimer or heterodimer and is a central regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), promoting migration, invasion, and metastasis in cancer[1][2][4]. Pathological activation or overexpression of TWIST1 is linked to poor clinical outcomes in multiple cancers, drug resistance, and developmental syndromes such as Saethre-Chotzen syndrome[3][6]. **Note:** - "TWIST1 mRNA" is not itself a canonical target name; the conventional target is the TWIST1 gene or protein. mRNA serves as an *intermediate* for gene expression targeting, typically addressed by nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Thus, "TWIST1 mRNA" is technically not a canonical therapeutic target like a receptor or enzyme, but is a valid *nucleic acid target* for approaches such as antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA, or CRISPR/Cas9 for gene silencing or editing[1][2]. - is_incorrect = true for "TWIST1 mRNA" as a canonical name. The correct canonical name is the gene "Twist family bHLH transcription factor 1" (TWIST1) or its protein product. When reporting or structuring targets, use “Twist family bHLH transcription factor 1 (TWIST1)” as canonical. “TWIST1 mRNA” should be referenced only if specifically discussing mRNA-level interventions.

Other names

CRSCSOSCSACS3CRS1BPES2BPES3SWCOSTWISTbHLHa38

Inhibition of mRNA (gene silencing by RNA interference or antisense oligonucleotides); suppression or restoration of TWIST1 expression at the mRNA or protein level