Hematopoietic cell differentiation orchestrated by transcription factor network and its related pathogenesis

Abstract

It has long been considered that hematopoietic system development is based on hematopoietic stem cell differentiation with a gradual loss of multipotency. However, recent studies have indicated that hematopoietic stem cells are composed of subsets that exhibit lineage skewing, thereby comprising a heterogeneous population. Therefore, the present hierarchical development model of the hematopoietic system may be reconsidered. Appropriate transcription regulators and epigenetic influences are required for cell differentiation. To this end, transcription factors, such as GATA1 for erythropoiesis and PU.1 for myelopoiesis, have been believed to play key roles at the initiation of hematopoietic cell differentiation. However, the mechanisms controlling the expression of these transcription factors are controlled, and the points at which the lineage commitments occur from hematopoietic stem cells through to progenitor cells are not fully elucidated. As per the findings of this study, we propose that the regulation of transcription and epigenetic factors are central events in hematopoietic cell differentiation.