"In this article, we show that CHD7, a chromatin remodeler, and SOX2, a pioneer transcription factor, cooperate to help shape the inner ear. CHD7 regulates Sox2 expression, and both genes bind near transcription start sites of key otic development and patterning genes, including Pax2 and Otx2. Our findings uncover a gene regulatory network that helps define the early epigenetic landscape of otic progenitor cells. These findings are relevant for understanding and treating hearing and balance disorders and shed light on potential interactions between these genes in other organs.”
Pictured left to right: Yiwen Zhai, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Pediatrics-Genetics, University of Michigan), Jelka Cimerman, Ph.D. (Research Lab Specialist, Pediatrics-Genetics, University of Michigan), Dr. Donna M. Martin, M.D., Ph.D. (Professor, Pediatrics & Human Genetics, University of Michigan), Jennifer M. Skidmore, B.S. (Lab Manager, Pediatrics-Genetics, University of Michigan), and Jingxia Gao, Ph.D. (Research Lab Specialist, Pediatrics-Genetics, University of Michigan)