Functions of LIM-homeobox genes.
Homeobox genes play fundamental roles in development. They can be subdivided into several subfamilies, one of which is the LIM-homeobox subfamily. The primary structure of LIM-homeobox genes has been remarkably conserved through evolution. Have their functions similarly been conserved? A host of new data has been derived from mutational analysis in diverse organisms, such as nematodes, flies and vertebrates. These studies have revealed a prominent involvement of LIM-homeodomain proteins in tissue patterning and differentiation, and their function in neural patterning is evident in all organisms studied to date. Here, we summarize the recent findings on LIM-homeobox gene function, compare the function of these genes from different organisms and describe specific co-factor requirements.
Hobert
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Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, 701 W.168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA. or38@columbia.edu
Westphal
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D000818:Animals; D017173:Caenorhabditis elegans / Q000235:genetics; D004330:Drosophila / Q000235:genetics; D019143:Evolution, Molecular; D005801:Genes, Homeobox / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008957:Models, Genetic; D005810:Multigene Family; D009154:Mutation; D010802:Phylogeny; D011485:Protein Binding; D014158:Transcription, Genetic