Double homeobox 4 like 20 (DUX4L20)

Double homeobox 4 like 20 (DUX4L20) is classified as a pseudogene in humans, meaning it arises from a duplication of a related gene (DUX4) but does not encode a functional protein product[4]. DUX4L20 has sequence similarity to DUX4, a transcription factor involved in embryonic development and also implicated in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)[1][5], but DUX4L20 itself is not known to have any biological function, interact with drugs, or serve as a therapeutic target. There is no evidence that DUX4L20 plays a role in physiological or disease processes nor that it encodes a functional protein[4]. Its presence is sometimes mentioned in genetic studies due to shared ancestry with DUX4. Clarification: The protein-coding DUX4 gene/protein (not DUX4L20) is a recognized transcription factor and is being studied as a therapeutic target, particularly in cancer and muscular dystrophy[1][2][3][5]. If your interest is in the biologically active molecule, you should refer to Double homeobox 4 (DUX4), not "Double homeobox 4 like 20" (DUX4L20). DUX4L20 is a non-functional pseudogene and not relevant as a therapeutic or biological target[4].

Other names

DUX4L20Double homeobox 4-like 20