Overview
Homeotic genes, particularly Hox genes, are vital for the proper development of body plans in organisms. They dictate the formation and arrangement of body segments, ensuring that limbs and organs develop in the correct locations. Hox genes are highly conserved across species, highlighting their imp...
Key Terms
Example: The gene for eye color determines the pigment in the iris.
Example: Hox genes are a type of homeotic gene.
Example: Hox genes determine the placement of limbs in vertebrates.
Example: The body plan of a starfish is different from that of a mammal.
Example: Insects exhibit segmentation in their body structure.
Example: Gene expression can be influenced by environmental factors.
Related Topics
Key Concepts
gene regulationbody segmentationdevelopmental biologyevolutionary significance