ReviewSox2: To crest or not to crest?

- SoxB factors are key regulators of neural progenitor identity.
- NCSC development is guided by Sox2.
- Sox2 acts as the Guardian of the Developmental Clock.

Precise control of neural progenitor transformation into neural crest stem cells ensures proper craniofacial and head development. In the neural progenitor pool, SoxB factors play an essential role as cell fate determinants of neural development, whereas during neural crest stem cell formation, Sox2 plays a predominant role as a guardian of the developmental clock that ensures precision of cell flow in the developing head.