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Homeobox genes in normal and malignant cells
Author(s) -
Cillo Clemente,
Cantile Monica,
Faiella Antonio,
Boncinelli Edoardo
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of cellular physiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.529
H-Index - 174
eISSN - 1097-4652
pISSN - 0021-9541
DOI - 10.1002/jcp.1115
Subject(s) - homeobox , homeobox a1 , hnf1b , hox gene , homeobox protein nkx 2.5 , dlx5 , biology , gene , genetics , cdx2 , transcription factor , genome , computational biology
Homeobox genes are transcription factors primarily involved in embryonic development. Several homeobox gene families have so far been identified: Hox, EMX, PAX, MSX as well as many isolated divergent homeobox genes. Among these, Hox genes are most intriguing for having a regulatory network structure organization. Recent indications suggest the involvement of homeobox genes in (i) crucial adult eukariotic cell functions and (ii) human diseases, spanning from diabetes to cancer. In this review we will discuss the mechanisms through which homeobox genes act, and will propose a model for the function of the Hox gene network as decoding system for achieving specific genetic programs. New technologies for whole‐genome RNA expression will be crucial to evaluate the clinical relevance of homeobox genes in structural and metabolic diseases. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.