A mammalian basic helix-loop-helix protein known variably as Stra13, Sharp2, and Dec1
has been implicated in cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation. Indeed, Stra13 null
mice develop age-induced autoimmunity as a result of impaired T-lymphocyte activation,
leading ultimately to the accumulation of autoreactive T-cells and B-cells. Stra13 is
expressed in embryonic as well as adult tissues derived from neuroectoderm, mesoderm,
and endoderm and has been associated with response to hypoxia, suggesting a complex …