Figure 9. Globo‐series GSLs–AUTS2 axis controls the GSL switch and Neural Differentiation.

Schematic representation of the globo‐to‐ganglio‐GSL switch in neural differentiation. (i) mESCs produce prevalently gobo‐series GSLs and have promoters of GM3S and neural genes repressed due to the action of PRC1 on local histone modifications (red dots). (ii) During neural differentiation globo‐series GSL production drops. (iii) In the absence of globo‐series GSLs, AUTS2 is induced. (iv) AUTS2 localises at the promoters of GM3S and neural genes where it recruits the histone acetyltransferase p300. p300 induces local histones acetylation (green dots) chromatin relaxation and gene transcription. As a result of these events, GM3S and neural genes are expressed and ESCs differentiate into neurons.