Gene:
paired box gene 8
Gene ID:
207286
Symbol:
PAX8
Species:
1000
Description:
This gene is a member of the paired box (PAX) family of transcription factors. Members of this gene family typically contain a paired box domain, an octapeptide, and a paired-type homeodomain. These genes play critical roles during fetal development and cancer growth. The specific function of the paired box gene 8 is unknown but it may involve kidney cell differentiation, thyroid development, or thyroid dysgenesis. Alternative splicing in this gene by inclusion or exclusion of exons 7 and/or 8 has produced several known products but the biological significance of the variants is unknown. Several other splice variants have been proposed but the full nature of these products has not been described.