Abstract
The mechanisms by which region-specific expression patterns of clustered genes evolve is poorly understood. Here we examined this issue through analysis of the rapidly evolving reproductive homeobox on the X chromosome (Rhox) gene cluster, the largest homeobox gene cluster in the mouse genome. We found that individual members of this gene cluster display peak expression levels in distinct segments of the mouse epididymis. Analysis of Rhox cluster epididymal expression in Rhox5- null animals indicated that Rhox5 (the founding member of the Rhox family) influences the expression of at least 7 other Rhox genes. In the rat epididymis, maximal RHOX5 expression switches from the proximal end of the epididymis (the caput; where sperm motility is acquired), to the distal end (the cauda; where sperm are stored). Interestingly, the expression patterns of all 7 RHOX genes under control of Rhox5 in the mouse epididymis, display a concomitant switch in their regional expression in the rat epididymis. Our results lead us to propose that widespread changes in the region-specific expression pattern of genes over evolutionary time can be the result of alterations of one or only a few master regulatory genes. (platform)
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
