Myogenin

Myogenin (myogenic factor 4), also known as MYOG, is a is_associated_with::gene.

Myogenin is a muscle-specific basic-helix-loop-helix (is_associated_with::bHLH) transcription factor involved in the coordination of is_associated_with::skeletal muscle development or is_associated_with::myogenesis and repair. Myogenin is a member of the MyoD family of transcription factors, which also includes is_associated_with::MyoD, is_associated_with::Myf5, and is_associated_with::Mrf4.

In mice, myogenin is essential for the development of functional skeletal muscle. Myogenin is required for the fusion of myogenic precursor cells to either new or previously existing fibers during the process of differentiation in is_associated_with::myogenesis. When the DNA coding for myogenin was knocked out of the mouse is_associated_with::genome, severe skeletal muscle defects were observed. Mice lacking both copies of myogenin (is_associated_with::homozygous-null) suffer from is_associated_with::perinatal lethality due to the lack of mature secondary skeletal muscle fibers throughout the body.

In cell culture, myogenin can induce myogenesis in a variety of non-muscle cell types.

Interactions
Myogenin has been shown to interact with:
 * is_associated_with::MDFI,
 * is_associated_with::POLR2C,
 * is_associated_with::Serum response factor
 * is_associated_with::Sp1 transcription factor, and
 * is_associated_with::TCF3.