Diversification of four human HOX gene clusters by step-wise evolution rather than ancient whole-genome duplications.

Abstract excerpt

HOX genes encode transcriptional factors that play a pivotal role in specifying regional identity in nearly every bilateral animal. The birth of HOX gene cluster and its subsequent evolution, either in regulation or function, underlie the evolution of many bilaterian features and hence to the evolutionary radiation of this group. Despite of this importance, evolution of HOX cluster in vertebrates remains largely...

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