Yale University School of Medicine, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8063
Correspondence: Address all correspondence and requests for reprints to: Hugh S. Taylor, Yale University School of Medicine, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, 333 Cedar Street, P.O. Box 208063, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8063. E-mail: hugh.taylor{at}yale.edu
Hox genes have a well-characterized role in embryonic development,where they determine identity along the anteroposterior bodyaxis. Hox genes are expressed not only during embryogenesisbut also in the adult, where they are necessary for functionaldifferentiation. Despite the known function of these genes astranscription factors, few regulatory mechanisms that driveHox expression are known. Recently, several hormones and theircognate receptors have been shown to regulate Hox gene expressionand thereby mediate development in the embryo as well as functionaldifferentiation in the adult organism. Estradiol, progesterone,testosterone, retinoic acid, and vitamin D have been shown toregulate Hox gene expression. In the embryo, the endocrine systemdirects axial Hox gene expression; aberrant Hox gene expressiondue to exposure to endocrine disruptors contributes to the teratogenicityof these compounds. In the adult, endocrine regulation of Hoxgenes is necessary to enable such diverse functions as hematopoiesisand reproduction; endocrinopathies can result in dysregulatedHOX gene expression affecting physiology. By regulating HOXgenes, hormonal signals utilize a conserved mechanism that allowsgeneration of structural and functional diversity in both developingand adult tissues. This review discusses endocrine Hox regulationand its impact on physiology and human pathology.
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