Several factors influence differentiation, including: - Transcription factors: Proteins that help turn specific genes on or off by binding to nearby DNA. - Signaling pathways: Networks of molecules that transmit signals from the cell surface to its interior, guiding the cell's behavior. - Epigenetic modifications: Chemical changes to the DNA or histones that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. - Microenvironment: The surrounding cells, extracellular matrix, and biochemical signals that provide context for the cell's development.
