Towards a unified logic underlying cell type identity
Organizer
Speaker
Ruohan Ren
Time
Thursday, September 7, 2023 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Venue
Online
Abstract
As we all know, stem cells can generate different kinds of cells. In this process, transcriptional factors (TFs) play an important role in cell differentiation. However, what turns TFs on and keeps them expressed? Utilizing 3 flatworms as subjects, we aim to unravel the unified logic. We choose the FoxF gene as a case to illustrate the outcomes we have achieved. To unveil the regulatory patterns of FOXF genes in the 3 flatworms, we feed them into a trained deep learning model based on ChromBPNet and extract the motifs regulating the genes. Ultimately, we find that self-regulation emerges as a pivotal circuit in FOXF expression in all 3 species. Applying the similar workflow, we identify additional intriguing self-regulatory genes. Self-regulation stands as a fundamental aspect of the unified logic underlying cell type identity.