Abstract C4: Sp2: A regulator of stem cell differentiation and tumorigenesis

The study investigated the role of the transcription factor Sp2 in stem cell differentiation and tumorigenesis using transgenic mice models. Over-expression of Sp2 was linked to oncogenic activity, as seen in two transgenic mouse lines, Family A and C. Family A mice developed skin lesions and died early, while Family C mice died due to skin deterioration. Hemizygous Family A mice showed alopecia in 70% of cases by 1 month of age, whereas Family C mice were prone to wound-induced neoplasia. The findings suggested that Sp2 over-expression limited stem cell differentiation, contributing to the development of poorly-differentiated, tumorigenic cells.