UNC homeobox protein (UNCX)

UNC homeobox protein (UNCX) is a sequence-specific DNA-binding homeobox transcription factor involved in critical developmental processes, primarily somitogenesis (the formation of somites, or segments, in the developing embryo) and neurogenesis (creation of new neurons). It is required for the maintenance and differentiation of the axial skeleton and is implicated in the control of developmental connections between hypothalamic neurons and pituitary targets, consequently influencing the delivery of hormones to peripheral tissues. In the nervous system, UNCX controls neuronal fate specification and synaptic patterning by acting as a transcriptional repressor, antagonizing activation by other homeodomain factors and diversifying neuronal identity. Dysregulation or altered expression of UNCX has been associated with an increased frequency of acute myeloid leukemia and other developmental syndromes.

Other names

Homeobox protein unc-4 homologUNCX4.1Uncx4.1Homeobox protein Uncx4.1Unc4.1 homeoboxUNCX