This gene encodes a member of the homeobox family of transcription factors, many of which are involved in developmental processes. Expression in specific hematopoietic lineages suggests that this protein may play a role in hematopoietic differentiation. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]
Forensic Context
A study in mice demonstrated that the HHEX gene was downregulated in common in spleen leukocytes across all three models of systemic inflammation (trauma/hemorrhage, burn injury, and LPS infusion) at a 2-hour post-injury time point [Brownstein et al. DOI:10.1152/physiolgenomics.00213.2005].