The HOXA13 gene provides instructions for producing a type of protein called a transcription factor. These proteins attach (bind) to specific regions of DNA and helps control the activity of other genes. The HOXA13 gene is part of a larger family genes called homeobox genes, which provide instructions for making transcription factors that act during early embryonic development to control the formation of many body structures. Specifically, the HOXA13 protein appears to be critical for the formation and development of the limbs (particularly the hands and feet), urinary tract, and reproductive system.
The HOXA13 protein contains three areas where a protein building block (amino acid) called alanine is repeated multiple times. These stretches of alanines are known as polyalanine tracts or poly(A) tracts. The role these polyalanine tracts play in the normal function of this protein is unknown.
Other Names
homeo box 1J; homeo box A13; Homeobox protein Hox-A13; homeobox protein HOXA13; Hox-1J; HOX1; HOX1J; HXA13_HUMAN; transcription factor HOXA13
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 3209
- OMIM: 142959
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
