Caudal-type homeobox protein 1 (CDX1)

Caudal-type homeobox protein 1 (CDX1) is a DNA-binding transcription factor encoded by the CDX1 gene and classified as a homeobox protein. It is primarily expressed in the developing endoderm and is critical for regulating intestine-specific gene expression, driving enterocyte differentiation, and maintaining epithelial identity throughout adulthood. CDX1 integrates diverse signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin and retinoid signaling, to promote intestinal differentiation and homeostasis. It plays important roles both in embryonic development (notably in cardiovascular formation via epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition) and in adult tissue, functioning as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer by driving epithelial differentiation and limiting cell proliferation. Dysregulation of CDX1 can contribute to metaplastic and neoplastic conversion, and although it is not considered a classic drug target like a receptor or enzyme, it is frequently studied in the context of cancer biology and epithelial disease.

Other names

Homeobox protein CDX-1Caudal type homeobox 1Caudal-type homeobox protein CDX1Caudal type homeo box transcription factor 1Caudal type homeobox transcription factor 1