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The Hox Gene Network in Vertebrate Limb Development

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Abstract

The Hox gene network has multiple roles in vertebrate limb development. One of its main functions is to encode positional information thus providing a “Hox” code for the pattern of structures along the long axis of the limb. Another function of Hox genes that has emerged recently is to regulate expression of the Sonic hedgehog gene (Shh) which controls patterning of distal structures. Hox genes also play a major role in development of the digits. The most recent advances have been the identification of control regions that drive Hox gene expression in the limb.

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Correspondence to Cheryll Tickle .

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Tickle, C. (2007). The Hox Gene Network in Vertebrate Limb Development. In: HOX Gene Expression. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-68990-6_3

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