IRX3

IRX3 (Iroquois Homeobox 3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IRX3 gene. It is a member of the Iroquois homeobox gene family and plays a crucial role in the early stages of human development.

Function

IRX3 is a transcription factor that belongs to the Iroquois homeobox gene family. Members of this family are involved in pattern formation of vertebrate organisms. IRX3 is known to play a role in the early stages of neural tube formation. It is also involved in the patterning of the conduction system of the heart.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the IRX3 gene have been associated with various medical conditions. For instance, a variant of the IRX3 gene has been linked to obesity. Studies have shown that people with this variant have a higher body mass index (BMI) than those without it.

In addition, IRX3 mutations have been implicated in the development of type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that the IRX3 gene may influence the risk of this disease by affecting the function of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

See also

• Iroquois homeobox gene family
• Transcription factor
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes