Can transcription factors function as cell-cell signalling molecules?

Alain Prochiantz; Alain Joliot

doi:10.1038/nrm1227

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Can transcription factors function as cell-cell signalling molecules?

Alain Prochiantz·Alain Joliot

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Abstract

Recent data support the view that transcription factors - in particular, homeoproteins - can be transferred from cell to cell and have direct non-cell-autonomous (and therefore paracrine) activities. This intercellular transfer, based on atypical internalization and secretion, has important biotechnological consequences. But the real excitement stems from the physiological and developmental implications of this mode of signal transduction.

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Animals Bacteria Cell Communication Fungi Homeodomain Proteins Models, Molecular Paracrine Communication Protein Transport Signal Transduction Transcription Factors Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review Journal Article

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Alain Prochiantz, Alain Joliot. 2003. Can transcription factors function as cell-cell signalling molecules?. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrm1227

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