NKX6-2

Homeobox protein Nkx-6.2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NKX6-2 gene.

Nk6 homeobox 2 gene (Nkx6.2) is found on chromosome 10 in humans and on chromosome 7 in murine species. Expression of the Nkx6.2 gene results in the Nkx6.2 transcription factor. Its expression can be seen in the fetal brain, ventral portion of the neural tube, and the developing spinal cord during embryogenesis as well as in the adult brain. Expression was also found to be in germ cells of testes.

Nkx6.2 is involved in the patterning of the central nervous system during early embryo development. As this gene continues to be researched, newfound information suggests that it aids in human oligodendrocyte maturation. It has also been found to be important in motor function stemming from spinal neuronal circuits.

Disorders with this gene can result in Spastic Ataxia which is a disease characterized by possible neurological issues, impaired learning ability, and a hypomyelinated central nervous system. Another study has shown that methylation of Nkx6.2 can be correlated with renal cancer metastasis. An Nkx6.2 knock-out mouse model showed abnormal motor ability thus corroborating that Nkx6.2 plays a role in central nervous system development.