HOMEO BOX Meaning and
Definition
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A homeo box, also known as a homeobox, is a highly conserved DNA sequence involved in genetic regulation and development across various organisms. It is a segment of approximately 180 base pairs located within genes that code for transcription factors, which play a crucial role in activating or repressing the expression of other genes during embryonic and tissue development.
The homeo box encodes a sequence of amino acids called the homeodomain, which is responsible for binding to specific DNA sequences and regulating gene activity. This domain allows the transcription factors to function as master regulators, controlling the activation or repression of target genes involved in pattern formation and organ development.
Discovered in the 1980s, the homeo box is found in a wide range of species, including humans, animals, plants, and even some fungi. It is divided into several classes, including the Hox genes, which are known for their crucial role in determining body axis patterning and segment identity during embryonic development.
Mutations or alterations in the homeo box sequence can lead to developmental abnormalities or disorders, illustrating its significance in normal organismal development. Understanding the function and regulation of the homeo box has provided valuable insights into the genetic control of development and has helped shed light on the evolutionary relationships between different species. Overall, the discovery and study of the homeo box have greatly contributed to our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying embryonic development and the diversity of life forms.
Common Misspellings for HOMEO BOX
- gomeo box
- bomeo box
- nomeo box
- jomeo box
- uomeo box
- yomeo box
- himeo box
- hkmeo box
- hlmeo box
- hpmeo box
- h0meo box
- h9meo box
- honeo box
- hokeo box
- hojeo box
- homwo box
- homso box
- homdo box
- homro box
- hom4o box
Etymology of HOMEO BOX
The word "Homeo Box" is derived from "homeotic", meaning relating to or involving the transformation of one organ into another, and "box", referring to the characteristic shape of the DNA sequence that encodes the homeotic gene. Homeotic genes are responsible for regulating the development and differentiation of body structures during embryonic development. The term "Homeo Box" was coined to describe a specific DNA sequence motif that characterizes these genes.
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