Core Viewpoint - The research highlights the critical role of the maternal transcription factor OTX2 in initiating human embryonic genome activation (EGA) and its implications for early human development [2][6]. Group 1: Research Findings - OTX2 is identified as an essential maternal PRD-like homeobox protein transcription factor necessary for EGA and early development in humans [5]. - At the 4-cell stage, OTX2 activates key EGA genes, including TPRX1 and TPRX2, as well as EGA-related repetitive sequences HERVL-int and MLT2A1 [5]. - OTX2 directly binds to promoters and presumed enhancers at EGA target sites, many of which overlap with OTX2 motif-containing Alu and MaLR repetitive elements, enhancing chromatin accessibility [5]. Group 2: Implications and Significance - The findings establish OTX2 as a key maternal transcription factor that awakens the genome at the beginning of human life, providing insights into molecular regulatory mechanisms in developmental biology and reproductive medicine [6]. - A related article in Nature Genetics emphasizes the largely unknown transcription factors responsible for initiating EGA in humans, underscoring the significance of the new research on OTX2 [6].

Core Viewpoint - The research team led by Professor Zhu Fangjie from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University has decoded the functional differentiation of MYB family transcription factors, providing new insights into the "specificity paradox" in higher plant research, which may accelerate the application of grass in new energy and materials [1][2]. Group 1: Research Findings - The study analyzed the DNA sequence specificity of 40 MYB family transcription factors, revealing a new mechanism for functional differentiation among transcription factors that originated from a common ancestor [1][2]. - The research identified key MYB factors that regulate cellulose synthesis in grass, which is crucial for its agronomic traits and production performance [2]. Group 2: Implications for Industry - The findings are expected to enhance the application of grass in the fields of new energy and new materials, particularly as biomass materials [2]. - The research integrates basic scientific research with industrial transformation, leveraging the advantages of the Straits Joint Research Institute and the National Grass Engineering Technology Research Center [2].