Pioneer factors govern super-enhancer dynamics in stem cell plasticity and lineage choice

The document from 2015 presents a study on the role of super-enhancers in the plasticity and lineage determination of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs). It was found that super-enhancers, which are large clusters of regulatory elements, are dynamically remodeled in HFSCs in response to environmental changes, such as wounding or in vitro culture conditions. This remodeling includes the decommissioning of old super-enhancers and the establishment of new ones, regulated by changes in master regulator levels, particularly SOX9. The study demonstrates that super-enhancers are sensitive to pioneer factors like SOX9, which act as chromatin rheostats, and are essential for stem cell identity and adaptability. The findings provide insights into how stem cells can regenerate tissues and adapt to new conditions, with implications for understanding tissue repair and stem cell biology.