Describe function of MyoD and Pax 6 proteins in development

Describe function of MyoD and Pax 6 proteins in development of certain animals. Be sure to mention any significant features concerning their protein structure:

Solution

MyoD is a protein (transcription factor) that regulates the process of cell division and muscle differentiation. The synthesis of MyoD results in the further synthesis of MyoD transcription factors. These transcription factors act on specific mRNAs to promote the synthesis of other muscle proteins such as myosin and proteins that inhibit the cell cycle. So, if the MyoD fails to activate the MyoD gene, no other transcription factors that are necessary for muscle protein synthesis are produced, and cell division will be continuous, without regulation.

The Pax6 gene codes for a paired domain-containing protein and a homebox, which function to regulate the transcription. The proteins encoded by this gene play a key role in the development of neurons, especially those that innervate the eye. Mutations in this gene ends with the diseases such as Peter’s anomaly (an ocular disorder).