Sox9 as a Key Regulator of Tissue Remodeling and Epithelial Cell Fate Transitions
April 2026
in “
Apollo (University of Cambridge)
”
TLDR SOX9 is crucial for cell development and repair but can cause fibrosis and cancer if misregulated.
This review highlights the role of the transcription factor SOX9 as a crucial regulator in epithelial cell fate transitions and tissue remodeling. SOX9 is essential for epithelial development and morphogenesis, and its dynamic regulation enhances the 'stemness' and regenerative capacity of cells following injury. The review suggests that SOX9 acts as a molecular integrator of environmental inputs during tissue disturbances. However, improper regulation of SOX9 can lead to fibrosis and cancer. Future research should focus on understanding how SOX9 processes biochemical and mechanical signals to develop regenerative medicine strategies and prevent related pathologies.