This gene is a member of the paired box (PAX) family of transcription factors. Members of the PAX family typically contain a paired box domain and a paired-type homeodomain. These genes play critical roles during fetal development. This gene plays a role in pattern formation during embryogenesis and may be essential for development of the vertebral column. This gene is silenced by methylation in ovarian and cervical cancers and may be a tumor suppressor gene. Mutations in this gene are also associated with vertebral malformations. [provided by RefSeq, Mar 2012],function:This protein is a transcriptional activator. It may play a role in the formation of segmented structures of the embryo. May play an important role in the normal development of the vertebral column.,similarity:Contains 1 paired domain.,
