In vertebrates, the genes encoding the class of transcription factors calledhomeobox genes are found in clusters named A, B, C, and D on four separate chromosomes. Expression of these proteins is spatially and temporally regulated during embryonic development. This gene is part of the A cluster on chromosome 7 and encodes a DNA-binding transcription factor which may regulate gene expression, morphogenesis, and differentiation. The encoded protein may be involved in the placement of hindbrain segments in the proper location along the anterior-posterior axis during development. Two transcript variants encoding two different isoforms have been found for this gene, with only one of the isoforms containing the homeodomain region.[6]
Kosaki K, Kosaki R, Suzuki T, et al. (2002). "Complete mutation analysis panel of the 39 human HOX genes".Teratology.65 (2):50–62.doi:10.1002/tera.10009.PMID11857506.
