Homeobox Genes

The natural biological systems, specifically those in charge of making up the bodies of every living organism, have adapted to make the creation of new bodies very simplified. Let me explain.

A homeobox gene, or hox for short, can be easily defined as a “body plan”  for animals.  Like a child following LEGO instructions to put pieces in the right place and create something out of bricks, this group of genes is in charge of putting genes and cells in the correct spot on a developing body.  These genes focus specifically on the placement and growth of the arms, legs and spine.  So, the genes used to create a mouse’s arms and legs, are very similar, albeit in a larger proportion, on an elephant’s body!

This is just one example of how nature uses patterns and basic biology to create many different and diverse species that are based off of the same genes.