MKX
Description
The MKX (mohawk homeobox) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 10.
MKX (mohawk homeobox) gene codes for the Mohawk homeobox protein, a transcription factor that controls tendon development. It's part of the Iroquois (IRX) family, known for its unusual homeodomain structure. MKX regulates tendon differentiation by influencing the expression of MyoD, a gene involved in muscle formation. It plays a critical role in the response to mechanical stimulation, contributing to the thickening and strengthening of collagen fibers in tendons during exercise. MKX expression is maintained in adult tendons but decreases with age or osteoarthritis. MKX's function is crucial for proper tendon formation and its ability to adapt to physical activity.
MKX is also known as C10orf48, IFRX, IRXL1.
