HOMEOBOX GENE Meaning and
Definition
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A homeobox gene is a type of gene that plays a crucial role in the regulation of embryonic development in animals. It is a specific type of gene sequence that encodes for a protein known as a homeodomain, which is responsible for controlling the expression of other genes during development. Homeobox genes are typically found in many organisms, including humans, and are highly conserved across species, indicating their fundamental importance in the genetic program.
The homeobox gene family is characterized by a conserved DNA sequence known as the homeobox, which is approximately 180 base pairs in length. This sequence encodes for a protein domain called the homeodomain, which contains a highly conserved helix-turn-helix motif. This motif allows the homeodomain protein to bind to specific DNA sequences in the regulatory regions of target genes, thereby influencing their expression.
Homeobox genes are involved in various developmental processes, including body axis formation, organ development, and tissue differentiation. They often contribute to the establishment of regional identities during embryonic development, ensuring that cells and tissues develop in the right place and at the right time within the developing organism. Mutations or alterations in homeobox genes can lead to developmental abnormalities and genetic disorders.
The discovery of homeobox genes and their role in development has provided valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying embryonic patterning and has contributed to our understanding of evolution.
Common Misspellings for HOMEOBOX GENE
- homeobox gune
- homeobox gmne
- homeobox gane
- homeobox ggne
- homeobox ge.e
- homeobox gefe
- homeobox gele
- homeobox geoe
- homeobox genu
- homeobox genm
- homeobox gena
- homeobox geng
- h omeobox gene
- ho meobox gene
- hom eobox gene
- homeobo x gene
- homeobox g ene
- homeobox ge ne
- homeobox gen e
Etymology of HOMEOBOX GENE
The word "homeobox gene" is derived from two components: "homeo-" and "box gene".
1. "Homeo-" comes from the Greek word "hómoios", meaning "like" or "similar". In biological terms, it refers to the concept of "homeostasis", which is the tendency of an organism or a system to maintain internal stability and balance.
2. "Box gene" refers to a specific type of gene that contains a sequence of DNA known as the "homeobox". The term "homeobox" was coined by the biologist Walter Jakob Gehring in the late 1970s. The homeobox is a conserved DNA sequence of about 180 nucleotides that encodes a specific DNA-binding domain called the "homeodomain".
