Ladybird homeobox 2 (LBX2) is a protein that is encoded by the LBX2 gene, located on the second chromosome in humans, and on the sixth chromosome in mice.
LBX2 belongs to the homeobox gene family, which plays important roles in embryonic development and tissue differentiation. The protein encoded by LBX2 functions as a transcription factor and is expressed in various tissues, including the heart, skeletal muscle, and nervous system. LBX2 is involved in the regulation of cardiac development, particularly in the formation of the atrial septum. Mutations or dysregulation of LBX2 have been associated with an increased risk of congenital heart defects, specifically atrial septal defects.
LBX2 plays a significant role in the development of various organs, such as the heart, and has been implicated in the growth of certain cancers.
