MEIS2

MEIS2 or Meis homeobox 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MEIS2 gene. It is a member of the three amino acid loop extension (TALE) class of homeodomain transcription factors. MEIS2 is known to play a crucial role in organogenesis such as cardiac septation and neurogenesis.

Function

MEIS2 proteins are known to interact with PBX and HOX proteins, forming multimeric complexes that can bind DNA and regulate transcription. These proteins play a significant role in determining cell fate during embryogenesis and continue to have functional roles in adult organisms.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the MEIS2 gene have been associated with cleft palate, congenital heart defects, intellectual disability, and scoliosis. A specific syndrome, MEIS2-related syndrome, is characterized by these features and is caused by a heterozygous mutation in the MEIS2 gene.

Research

Research into MEIS2 has shown its importance in various biological processes. It has been implicated in the development of the central nervous system, cardiac development, and limb development. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of MEIS2 in these processes and its potential implications in disease.

See also

• Homeobox
• PBX
• HOX