A research team led by Professor Stephen D. Nimer at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center has published a significant study in Developmental Cell, elucidating the regulatory role of the key molecule TAF1 in blood cell formation. This discovery provides a theoretical foundation for developing novel therapeutic strategies for blood disorders.

The team found that TAF1 plays a critical role in the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into mature blood cells. Sylvester researcher Ramin Shiekhattar stated: "TAF1 acts like a molecular switch that integrates transcriptional signals, balancing stem cell maintenance and lineage differentiation." Experimental data showed that loss of TAF1 affects only the activation of differentiation-related genes without impairing stem cell self-renewal capacity.

The study challenges traditional understanding of TAF1 function. First author Dr. Fan Liu noted: "The most surprising finding was that adult hematopoietic stem cells can survive without this important transcription factor." The researchers also discovered that TAF1 has dual functions, capable of both initiating and suppressing transcription.

These findings support the development of TAF1-targeted drugs. Professor Nimer said: "Targeting TAF1 does not impair normal hematopoiesis, making it a promising therapeutic target." The team plans to further explore TAF1's role in other stem cell systems and investigate its potential in stem cell transplantation.