The
protein Nanog, a transcription factor, is key to
maintaining stem cells in a pluripotent state. Researchers from the Centre for
Genomic Regulation have been investigating the role of this protein, and have
just published an article in the prestigious journal Cell Reports where
they reveal the mechanism whereby Nanog acts. The scientists have discovered
that Nanog involves other agents and they have been able to detail their
dynamics. In particular, by studying another protein that is also involved in
cell reprogramming (beta-catenin) they have been able to improve the knowledge
of Nanog's functioning.