Homeoboxes and Hox Genes

When comparing human body plans to those of flies, Shubin talks about special Hox genes, segments of the genome that appear in vastly different animals. The genes present in flies which code for a specific order of body parts (anterior to posterior) also appear in the genes that code for the order of the human spine. This same pattern appears in a plethora of other animals not discussed in the book, but the same Hox genes are found across the animal kingdom and they code for similar functions. Using your knowledge of DNA and development, discuss how knowing the general functions of Hox genes, and their presence in many other animals can lead to important changes in the way we view gene expression. How can humans use this information to learn more about the diseases that afflict many?

Jeremy Solomon

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