PROX1 acts as a molecular ‘cell fate guardian’ in hepatocytes, preserving liver cell identity throughout life by actively repressing unwanted plasticity. PROX1 loss impairs liver regeneration and fuels tumor formation, whereas PROX1 activation halts cancer formation and progression, revealing unexpected therapeutic potential.
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References
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This is a summary of: Lim, B. et al. Active repression of cell fate plasticity by PROX1 safeguards hepatocyte identity and prevents liver tumorigenesis. Nat. Genet. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-025-02081-w (2025).
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Safeguard repressor locks hepatocyte identity and blocks liver cancer. Nat Genet 57, 494–495 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-025-02082-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-025-02082-9
