Hox specificity unique roles for cofactors and collaborators.

摘要: Abstract Hox proteins are well known for executing highly specific functions in vivo , but our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying gene regulation by these fascinating has lagged behind. The premise this review is that an regulation—by any transcription factor—requires dissection cis ‐regulatory elements they act upon. With goal mind, we concepts and ideas regarding apply them to a curated list directly regulated have been validated literature. Our analysis Hox‐binding sites within suggests several emerging generalizations. We distinguish between cofactors, bind DNA cooperatively with thereby help DNA‐binding site selection, collaborators, parallel Hox‐targeted dictate sign strength regulation. Finally, summarize insights come from examining five X‐ray crystal structures Hox‐cofactor‐DNA complexes. Together, analyses reveal enormous amount flexibility into how function regulate expression, perhaps providing explanation why factors central players evolution morphological diversity animal kingdom.