Snai2, also known as Slug, is an evolutionarily conserved C2H2 zinc finger protein encoded by the SNAI2 gene. It functions as a transcription factor, initially recognized for its role in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process involved in tissue development and tumorigenesis. It also participates in various biological processes such as tumor metastasis, stem cell biology, cellular differentiation, vascular remodeling, and DNA damage repair by facilitating epigenetic regulation of transcriptional programs [2].

In mice, hepatocyte-specific deletion of both Snai1 and Snai2 suppresses liver cyclin A2/D1 expression and regenerative hepatocyte proliferation after hepatectomy or CCl4 treatments but augments CCl4-stimulated HSC activation and liver fibrosis, indicating that Snai2 promotes liver regeneration and suppresses liver fibrosis [1]. In rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), SNAI2 is abnormally expressed, promoting proliferation, metastasis, and vasculogenic mimicry. The deubiquitinase USP7 and E3 ligase TRIM21 balance SNAI2 homeostasis, which is crucial for RMS progression [3]. In RMS, SNAI2 also maintains NOTCH1 expression through interaction with CTCF, and its suppression of apoptosis post-radiation is independent of NOTCH1 effects on self-renewal and differentiation [4]. Additionally, SNAI2-mediated repression of BIM protects RMS from ionizing radiation [5]. In oral leukoplakia, SNAI2 promotes malignant transformation by modulating partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (p-EMT) [6].

In conclusion, Snai2 is a key regulator in multiple biological processes and diseases. Studies using gene knockout (KO) or conditional knockout (CKO) mouse models have revealed its significance in liver regeneration and fibrosis, as well as in cancer-related processes like those in rhabdomyosarcoma and oral leukoplakia. These models provide valuable insights into the role of Snai2, helping to understand the underlying mechanisms of these diseases and potentially guiding the development of new therapeutic strategies.