| The Nkx family of homeobox containing transcription factors are differentially expressed and regulate the production of tissue specific target genes. Some members of the Nkx family include TTF-1 (also designated Nkx-2.1), Nkx-2.2, Nkx-2.5 (also designated cardiac specific homeobox protein CSX), Nkx-2.6, Nkx-3.1, Nkx-3.2, Nkx-6.1 and Nkx-6.2. TTF-1 is primarily observed in adult thyroid and lung. Nkx-2.2 and Nkx-6.1 are required for pancreatic B-cell differentiation, and Nkx-2.5 and Nkx-2.6 are involved in normal cardiac development. Nkx-3.1 is predominantly expressed in developing and adult prostate tissue. |