Question

What do HOX genes determine in an animal?

Answer 1

HOX ( homeo box ) genes are a group of related genes that determine the basic structure and orientation of animals .

Explanation:

HOX genes are critical for the proper placement of segment structures of animals during early embryonic development e.g.
1) legs , antennae and wings in fruit flies.
2) different vertebrate ribs in humans.

HOX genes exist as gene clusters on the genome
This cluster of master control genes programme the development of all higher organisms. This cluster is highly conserved .

HOX genes are a cluster of complex genes whose proteins bind to the regulatory regions of target genes . The target genes then activate or repress cell processes to direct the final development of the organisation.

Humans have a total of 39 HOX genes in clusters on four chromosomes.