7th International Workshop on SOX Transcription Factors

ABSTRACT

Marking the 20th anniversary of a well-established meeting series focused on the biological and clinical importance of SOX genes as regulators of cell fate, the 7th International Workshop on SOX Transcription Factors held from 8−11 September 2025 at the Prince Resort MICE Karuizawa in Nagano, Japan, brought together 83 participants from 17 countries. The meeting showcased the foundations of SOX gene research and recent technological and conceptual breakthroughs across diverse model systems and human research, illustrating the field's evolution and emerging directions for future research. Reflecting the breadth of SOX biology – from early embryonic development and sex determination to pathogenesis and sex testing policies in sports – this Meeting Review highlights the key scientific advances and messages presented at the meeting to encourage and inspire researchers in the field of SOX biology.