TBX gene family

Genes in the TBX gene family provide instructions for making proteins called T-box proteins that play critical roles during embryonic development. These proteins are especially important for normal development of the arms, hands, and heart. T-box proteins regulate the activity of other genes by attaching (binding) to specific regions of DNA. On the basis of this action, T-box proteins are called transcription factors. Genes in the T-box family are grouped together because the proteins produced from these genes share a similar segment called a T box. The T box is the part of the protein that binds to DNA. T-box proteins often interact with one another or with other transcription factors that regulate gene activity.

Researchers have identified at least 17 genes in the T-box gene family. Mutations in these genes lead to disorders that involve the abnormal development of tissues in which a particular T-box gene is active (expressed). Many genetic disorders caused by T-box gene mutations are characterized by heart problems and/or skeletal abnormalities of the hands and arms.