DBX1
Description
The DBX1 (developing brain homeobox 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
DBX1, or Developing brain homeobox protein 1, is a protein encoded by the DBX1 gene in humans. This gene acts as a transcription factor, playing a vital role in the differentiation of interneurons in the ventral spinal cord. The spinal interneurons V0 and V1 are formed from progenitor domains, and their differentiation is driven by the expression of homeodomain proteins DBX1 and DBX2. DBX1 is specifically localized and crucial in defining the distinct fates of V0 and V1 neurons. In mice lacking DBX1, neural progenitors fail to produce V0 interneurons and instead generate interneurons exhibiting V1 characteristics, such as their transcription factor profile, neurotransmitter type, migration pattern, and axonal trajectory. This suggests that DBX1, as a single homeodomain transcription factor, orchestrates many of the differentiated properties of one class of interneurons generated in the ventral spinal cord. V0 and V1 interneurons are believed to be crucial for rhythmic breathing, as demonstrated in a neonatal mouse model. Destruction of these DBX1 neurons in the pre-Botzinger complex resulted in impaired respiratory rhythm and reduced motor output activity.
DBX1 is also known as HLX1.
