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Updated: Jul 15, 2026

Understanding Early Organogenesis Using a Simplified In Situ Hybridization Protocol in Xenopus
Published on: January 12, 2015
Xnkx-2.1: a homeobox gene expressed during early forebrain, lung and thyroid development in Xenopus laevis
1Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Humboldtallee 23, 37073 Göttingen, Germany. thollem1@gwdg.de
Abstract:
Nkx-2.1 is a member of the vertebrate Nkx family of homeobox genes; it was originally identified as a tissue-specific regulator of thyroglobulin and thyroperoxidase gene transcription. Here we report on the embryonic expression of Xnkx-2.1, which is expressed in the presumptive forebrain from early neurulation onwards. In tadpole stage embryos Xnkx-2.1 transcripts are primarily detected in ventral forebrain, lung buds and thyroid anlage. Therefore, Xnkx-2.1 may be part of the genetic network that controls the early development of these organs.
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