Hox genes and region-specific sensorimotor circuit formation in the hindbrain and spinal cord

摘要: Homeobox (Hox) genes were originally discovered in the fruit fly Drosophila, where they function through a conserved homeodomain as transcriptional regulators to control embryonic morphogenesis. In vertebrates, 39 Hox have been identified and like their Drosophila counterparts are organized within chromosomal clusters. interact with various cofactors, such TALE proteins, recognition of consensus sequences regulatory elements target genes. display spatially restricted patterns expression developing hindbrain spinal cord, considered crucial determinants segmental identity cell specification along anterioposterior dorsoventral axes embryo. Here, we review later roles assembly neuronal circuitry, stereotypic migration, axon pathfinding, topographic connectivity. Importantly, will put some emphasis on how early-segmented can influence formation complex vital cord circuitries.