Targeting DAX-1 in embryonic stem cells and cancer.
BACKGROUND
DAX-1 (NR0B1) is an unusual orphan nuclear receptor whose function is essential for the development of the human adrenal cortex and onset of puberty. Recent data have implicated this transcription factor also in embryonic stem cell and cancer biology.


METHODS
The role of DAX-1 in the regulation of development and function of the adrenal cortex, reproductive axis, embryonic stem cells and a few types of cancer.


RESULTS
Here we review the past and present milestones in DAX-1 research and try to provide hints about the development and fields of application of DAX-1-targeted drugs in the future.


CONCLUSIONS
The unusual structure and restricted expression pattern of DAX-1 may offer unique opportunities for drug discovery.
Lalli
Enzo
E
Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire CNRS UMR 6097, Valbonne, France. ninino@ipmc.cnrs.fr
Alonso
Javier
J
D000302:Adrenal Cortex / Q000196:embryology / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D057137:DAX-1 Orphan Nuclear Receptor / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D053595:Embryonic Stem Cells / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D015514:Oncogene Proteins, Fusion / Q000502:physiology; D051789:Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1 / Q000502:physiology; D034802:RNA-Binding Protein EWS; D012098:Reproduction / Q000502:physiology
D057137:DAX-1 Orphan Nuclear Receptor; C106031:EWS-FLI fusion protein; D015514:Oncogene Proteins, Fusion; D051789:Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1; D034802:RNA-Binding Protein EWS