Transcription factors see clearly now that the rain is gone - encoding stem cell visions, dreams and memories

Cell identity relies on precise control of transcription factor (TF) activity and enhancer function. I will focus on uncoupling TF binding from transcription and transcription from DNA binding. I will discuss stories that feature TF occupancy at enhancers that are important determinants of future cell states in either embryonic stem cell differentiation or regeneration.  How do pioneer transcription factors record cellular memory? How do they guide future cell fate choices? And how does transcription itself exploit pioneer factors to both insure a robust transcriptional response and constrain their distribution to protect cell identity?  I hope to discuss our new ideas that address these questions and suggest new ways to interpret the role of these factors in cellular memory and differentiation behaviours.