The Hox genes and their roles in oncogenesis

Abstract

Hox genes are a highly conserved subgroup of the homeobox superfamily that regulate numerous processes including development, apoptosis, differentiation and cell motility. Aberrations in Hox gene expression have been reported in malignancy and this Opinion article discusses our current knowledge of these genes in tumour development and metastasis. Hox genes, a highly conserved subgroup of the homeobox superfamily, have crucial roles in development, regulating numerous processes including apoptosis, receptor signalling, differentiation, motility and angiogenesis. Aberrations in Hox gene expression have been reported in abnormal development and malignancy, indicating that altered expression of Hox genes could be important for both oncogenesis and tumour suppression, depending on context. Therefore, Hox gene expression could be important in diagnosis and therapy.