This gene encodes a member of the muscle segment homeobox
gene family. The encoded protein functions as a transcriptional
repressor during embryogenesis through interactions with components
of the core transcription complex and other homeoproteins. It may
also have roles in limb-pattern formation, craniofacial
development, particularly odontogenesis, and tumor growth
inhibition. Mutations in this gene, which was once known as
homeobox 7, have been associated with nonsyndromic cleft lip with
or without cleft palate 5, Witkop syndrome, Wolf-Hirschom syndrome,
and autosomoal dominant hypodontia.
