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ARX
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ARXOn this page:
Reviewed August 2012
What is the official name of the ARX gene?The official name of this gene is “aristaless related homeobox.” ARX is the gene's official symbol. The ARX gene is also known by other names, listed below. Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page. What is the normal function of the ARX gene?The ARX gene provides instructions for producing a protein that regulates the activity of other genes. On the basis of this action, the ARX protein is called a transcription factor. The ARX gene is part of a larger family of homeobox genes, which act during early embryonic development to control the formation of many body structures. Specifically, the ARX protein is believed to be involved in the development of the pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, testes, and brain. The ARX protein is thought to play a role in the migration of specialized nerve cells, called interneurons, to their proper location in the developing brain. Interneurons relay signals between other nerve cells (neurons). Does the ARX gene share characteristics with other genes?The ARX gene belongs to a family of genes called homeobox (homeoboxes). A gene family is a group of genes that share important characteristics. Classifying individual genes into families helps researchers describe how genes are related to each other. For more information, see What are gene families? in the Handbook. How are changes in the ARX gene related to health conditions?
Where is the ARX gene located?Cytogenetic Location: Xp21.3 Molecular Location on the X chromosome: base pairs 25,021,810 to 25,034,064 The ARX gene is located on the short (p) arm of the X chromosome at position 21.3. More precisely, the ARX gene is located from base pair 25,021,810 to base pair 25,034,064 on the X chromosome. See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook. Where can I find additional information about ARX?You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about ARX helpful.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for the ARX gene or gene products?
See How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook. Where can I find general information about genes?The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful. What glossary definitions help with understanding ARX?acids ; amino acid ; cell ; chromosome ; dystonia ; embryonic ; gastrointestinal ; gene ; genitalia ; homeobox ; involuntary ; mental retardation ; mutation ; nerve cell ; neurological ; neuron ; pancreas ; protein ; seizure ; sign ; spasticity ; symptom ; syndrome ; testis ; transcription ; transcription factor You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary. See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
References (14 links)
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. |