PAX5, also known as Paired Box 5, is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in B-cell development and differentiation. It is part of the PAX family of transcription factors, characterized by a conserved paired box domain involved in DNA binding and protein interactions. PAX5 is vital for directing B-cell lineage commitment during hematopoiesis and is expressed in progenitor cells that are destined to become B cells, supporting their development from hematopoietic stem cells.