Extreme conservation of noncoding DNA near HoxD complex of vertebrates.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Homeotic gene complexes determine the anterior-posterior body axis in animals. The expression pattern and function of hox genes along this axis is colinear with the order in which they are organized in the complex. This 'chromosomal organization and functional correspondence' is conserved in all bilaterians investigated. Genomic sequences covering the HoxD complex from several vertebrate species are now available. This offers a comparative genomics approach to identify conserved regions linked to this complex. Although the molecular basis of 'colinearity' of Hox complexes is not yet understood, it is possible that there are control elements within or in the proximity of these complexes that establish and maintain the expression patterns of hox genes in a coordinated fash

SUBMITTER: Sabarinadh C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC524357 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature