DU Hongling, Taylor Hugh S
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, P.O. Box 2008063, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004 Dec;1034:152-65. doi: 10.1196/annals.1335.018.
HOX genes are a family of regulatory molecules that encode conserved transcription factors controlling aspects of morphogenesis and cell differentiation during normal embryonic development. All metazoans possess a common genetic system for embryonic patterning, and this system is also used in the reproductive tract. Hox genes are also expressed in the adult uterus. Hox genes are essential both for the development of mullerian tract in the embryonic period and adult function. Sex steroids regulate Hox gene expression during embryonic and endometrial development in the menstrual cycle. EMX2 and beta(3)-integrin acting downstream of Hoxa10 gene are likely involved in both these developmental processes. This article reviews the role and molecular regulation of Hox genes in reproductive tract development.
HOX基因是一类调控分子，编码保守的转录因子，在正常胚胎发育过程中控制形态发生和细胞分化的各个方面。所有后生动物都拥有一个用于胚胎模式形成的共同遗传系统，这个系统也用于生殖道。Hox基因也在成年子宫中表达。Hox基因对于胚胎期苗勒管的发育和成年期功能都至关重要。性类固醇在月经周期的胚胎和子宫内膜发育过程中调节Hox基因表达。在Hoxa10基因下游起作用的EMX2和β(3)-整合素可能参与这两个发育过程。本文综述了Hox基因在生殖道发育中的作用及分子调控。
