Investigating the Functions of Hox Genes Using Planarian Asexual Reproduction

Hox genes are highly conserved developmental regulators instrumental to the formation of a wide range of diverse body plans across metazoans. While significant progress in the field of Hox gene research has been made, persistent challenges in unraveling their mechanisms of action and full repertoire of functions remain. To date, investigations of Hox gene function have been primarily conducted in research models belonging to ecdysozoa and vertebrata. Herein we summarize recent findings on Hox genes' roles in the asexual reproduction of the regenerative flatworm planaria, a member of the understudied superphylum Spiralia. We detail our optimized methods for planarian culture, gene perturbation, and induction of asexual reproduction. We aim to provide an experimentally tractable means to dissect Hox gene adult tissue functions underlying planarian asexual reproduction with broader relevance to Hox genes' established and emerging roles in regulating cellular behaviors, developmental patterning, animal behavior, and tissue regeneration.