HOXB4

HOXB4 is a gene that encodes a member of the homeobox family of transcription factors, proteins that bind to DNA and regulate gene expression. This gene is located on chromosome 17 in humans and is part of the HOX gene cluster, which plays a crucial role in embryonic development and cell differentiation.

Function

The HOXB4 gene is involved in the regulation of morphogenesis, the biological process that gives an organism its shape. It is particularly important in the development of the posterior region of the body, including the spine and hindbrain. The protein encoded by this gene is a sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factor that typically interacts with the enhancer elements of genes involved in cell growth and differentiation.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the HOXB4 gene have been associated with a variety of congenital disorders, including vertebral malformations and neural tube defects. Additionally, overexpression of HOXB4 has been linked to certain types of cancer, including leukemia and breast cancer, suggesting a potential role in oncogenesis.

Research

Research into the HOXB4 gene has focused on its potential use in stem cell therapies. Studies have shown that overexpression of HOXB4 can enhance the self-renewal of hematopoietic stem cells, which could have implications for the treatment of blood disorders and cancers.

See Also

• Homeobox
• Transcription factor
• Morphogenesis
• Stem cell