HOX genes, specifically HOXC genes and their homeodomains, are vital to the development of vertebrates. The HOXC genes function in cell differentiation, proliferation, and epithelial tissue development, with associations to lymphoma and club foot in humans (Gene Cards, 2019). Some studies have also indicated that the genes may be important in vertebrae (Carrasco, 1994) and other bone development such as craniofacial morphogenesis (Hirata, 2016). Mutations in these genes can often result in a homeotic mutation, where certain body parts end up growing where it is not usually grown, or a severe malformation of certain limbs and organs (Alvarado, 2016).
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