SOX10

Background

SOX10 is a member of the transcription factor family of HMG box (SOx) related to SRY, which is involved in the regulation of embryonic development and the determination of cell fate. SOX10 is expressed in the formation of neural crest and Schwann cells. SOX10 is important for the differentiation, maturation and maintenance of Schwann cells and melanocytes. In normal tissues, SOX10 is expressed in Schwann cells and glial cells in the nervous system. SOX10 is also expressed in melanocytes and epithelial cells of salivary glands and mammary glands. In tumor tissue, SOX10 marks melanoma and tumors of neural crest origin. SOX10 is more specific than S100 protein in melanoma cells and neuroblastoma, and is more sensitive in some studies.