Caudal type homeobox 2 (CDX2)

Caudal type homeobox 2 (CDX2) is a homeobox-containing transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in intestinal development and homeostasis by governing the identity and differentiation of the intestinal epithelium[1][2][6]. It acts as a major regulator in both stem/progenitor and differentiated intestinal cells, primarily through binding DNA and modulating gene expression. CDX2’s activities extend beyond traditional gene transcription, also impacting cellular pathways such as Wnt and NF-κB, DNA repair, and RNA splicing[1]. Loss or aberrant expression of CDX2 is closely linked to colorectal cancer and serves as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in gastrointestinal oncology. Additionally, CDX2 can be ectopically expressed in non-intestinal tissues, where it is implicated in disease processes such as metaplasias and certain leukemias[1][3][4][6].

Other names

Homeobox protein CDX-2CDX2 homeoproteinIntestine-specific transcription factorCaudal-related homeobox protein 2