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Updated: Jun 25, 2025

Blastomere Explants to Test for Cell Fate Commitment During Embryonic Development
Published on: January 26, 2013
DUX4, the rockstar of embryonic genome activation?
Sonja Nykänen1, Sanna Vuoristo1
1Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program; Helsinki Institute of Life Science; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Abstract:
During the initial days of development, the embryo gradually shifts from reliance on maternally provided RNAs and proteins to regulation of its own development. This transition is marked by embryonic genome activation (EGA). While the factors driving human EGA remain poorly characterized, accumulating evidence suggests that double homeobox 4 (DUX4) is an important regulator of this process. Despite advances in single-cell methods which have allowed studies in early human embryos, fundamental questions regarding the function and regulation of DUX4 persist. Here, we review current knowledge of DUX4 with a focus on EGA in humans.
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