HOXA5

HOXA5 is a gene that belongs to the homeobox family of genes. The protein encoded by this gene is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in embryonic development and cell differentiation.

Function

The HOXA5 gene is part of the A cluster on chromosome 7 and it is one of many HOX genes that determine the body plan of an embryo along the head-tail axis. After the embryonic segments have formed, the HOXA5 proteins direct the formation of specific structures by switching certain genes on and off. This gene is involved in the development of the respiratory system and the central nervous system, and it also regulates apoptosis.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the HOXA5 gene have been associated with congenital heart defects and hand-foot-genital syndrome. In addition, the HOXA5 gene has been implicated in several types of cancer, including breast cancer and lung cancer. It is thought that the gene's role in cell differentiation can contribute to the development of these diseases when it is mutated or expressed at abnormal levels.

Research

Research on the HOXA5 gene is ongoing, with scientists seeking to understand its precise role in development and disease. Studies have suggested that the gene may also be involved in the development of the immune system, and further research is needed to confirm these findings.

See Also

• Homeobox
• Transcription factor
• Embryonic development
• Cell differentiation
• Congenital heart defects
• Hand-foot-genital syndrome
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer