Sox8 is a transcription factor belonging to the Sox family of high-mobility-group domain containing proteins, closely related to Sox9 and Sox10. It is involved in multiple biological processes such as organogenesis, differentiation, and homeostasis. During development, it is expressed in various tissues derived from ectoderm, endoderm, and mesoderm. It is associated with pathways like Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and is crucial for maintaining the normal function of adipose tissue, Sertoli cells, blood-testis-barrier, and myelin in the central nervous system [1].

In the Chinese soft-shelled turtle, knockdown of Sox8 led to complete feminization of ZZ individuals, indicating its essential role in male sexual differentiation [2]. In mouse spermatogonial cells, the long non-coding RNA Mrhl regulates Sox8 through chromatin looping, affecting meiotic commitment [3]. In the cuprizone model of demyelination and remyelination, Sox8-/-mice showed reduced oligodendrocyte precursor cell proliferation, fewer mature oligodendrocytes, and delayed remyelination, highlighting its importance in remyelination processes [4].

In conclusion, Sox8 plays diverse and essential roles in development and tissue homeostasis. Findings from gene knockout models in different species have revealed its significance in male sexual differentiation, spermatogonial cell regulation, and remyelination. Understanding Sox8's functions can provide insights into the mechanisms of related biological processes and potential therapeutic targets for associated diseases.