Summary
Master regulators that specify body segment identity along the head-to-tail axis.
In depth
Arranged in clusters in the same order as their expression along the body axis (colinearity). Mutations in Drosophila (Antennapedia) cause legs in place of antennae. Mammals have four clusters (HoxA-D).
Hox proteins are transcription factors with a DNA-binding homeodomain. Posterior genes dominate (posterior prevalence). Regulation uses retinoic acid and chromatin domains.
Remember: Hox gene order along the chromosome matches body position.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hox Genes?
Master regulators that specify body segment identity along the head-to-tail axis.
Which area of biology covers Hox Genes, and how advanced is it?
Hox Genes is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Hedgehog Signalling, Body Axes Formation, Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks.
Can you give an example of Hox Genes?
Hox changes helped change the number of vertebrae among vertebrates.
What should I learn before Hox Genes?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to Hox Genes. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Hox Genes?
The closest topics to Hox Genes are Hedgehog Signalling, Body Axes Formation, Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks, Segmentation Genes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Hox Genes?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Hox Genes. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Hox Genes different from Hedgehog Signalling?
Hox Genes: Master regulators that specify body segment identity along the head-to-tail axis. Hedgehog Signalling: A morphogen pathway patterning the neural tube and limbs through Gli transcription factors. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Hox Genes step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Hedgehog Signalling and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.