The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins are transcription factors that are required for several aspects of development, including cell type determination, terminal differentiation and sex determination. The HLH domain is required for dimerization, while the basic region makes specific contacts with DNA. Members of the myogenic determination family, MyoD, myf5, myogenin and MRF4, all have bHLH domains. These proteins heterodimerize with members of the E protein family and initiate myogenesis. Neuro D has been identified as a bHLH transcription factor functioning in neurogenic differentiation. Neuro D is expressed transiently in a subset of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems at the time of their terminal differentiation into mature neurons. Moreover, ectopic expression of Neuro D in Xenopus embryos induces premature differentiation of neuronal precursors and Neuro D can convert presumptive epidermal cells into neurons.
