The secretory specific genes directly activated by Scr, Exd and Hth include several transcription factors – CrebA, Fork head (Fkh), Sage and Huckebein – as well as a splicing factor – Pasilla. The early expressed genes both maintain and implement the secretory cell fate decision. Pasilla and CrebA function to increase secretory capacity in the professional secretory cells of the SG. Fkh maintains its own expression as well as expression of CrebA and Sage. Fkh also controls morphogenesis and in collaboration with Sage and their downstream target Senseless, activates expression of SG-specific genes and represses the apoptotic genes reaper and hid, keeping the SGs alive. Huckebein mediates tube elongation.