Homeobox Genes
Homeobox genes are a group of regulatory genes that play a crucial role in the development of organisms. They contain a specific DNA sequence known as the homeobox, which encodes a protein domain that can bind to DNA. This allows homeobox genes to control the expression of other genes, influencing the formation of body structures during embryonic development.
These genes are highly conserved across many species, including humans, fruit flies, and mice, indicating their fundamental importance in biology. Mutations in homeobox genes can lead to developmental disorders and malformations, highlighting their critical role in ensuring proper organismal development.