The importance of Gli factors for cancer development and progression is that they can activate the expression of a number of target genes involved in proliferation (e.g. Cyclin D1, N-Myc, and FoxA2), survival (Bcl-2), angiogenesis (Ang1/2), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (Snail 1, Sip1, Elk1) and stem cell self-renewal (Nanog, Sox2, Bmi1) (18, 19). The gene discussed is GLI1; the disease is cancer.