The SOX family of transcription factors belongs to the High Mobility Group (HMG) box superfamily of DMA-binding proteins and regulates many developmental processes, such as cell specification and organ development. The SOX family, comprised of subgroups A-J, is characterized by a highly conserved HMG domain, the DNA binding domain. Two members of SOX family subgroup E, Sox9 and Sox10, are further distinguished by the presence of two uncharacterized homology domains, termed E1 and E2. Both Sox9 and Sox10 have been implicated in inner ear development, and specific mutations in these genes can cause congenital deafness.
The aim of this application is to investigate the functional and mechanistic role that these two SOX family members play in the development of the otic placode. This will be explored by looking at potential functional redundancy between Sox9 and Sox10, different protein-protein interactions, and possible post-translational modifications.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
1F31DC007790-01A1
Application #
7055485
Study Section
Communication Disorders Review Committee (CDRC)
Program Officer
Sklare, Dan
Project Start
2005-09-01
Project End
2008-08-31
Budget Start
2005-09-01
Budget End
2006-08-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$28,232
Indirect Cost
Name
Northwestern University at Chicago
Department
Biochemistry
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
160079455
City
Evanston
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60201
Taylor, Kimberly M; LaBonne, Carole (2007) Modulating the activity of neural crest regulatory factors. Curr Opin Genet Dev 17:326-31