Many Drosophila homeotic and segmentation genes contain a conserved protein-coding sequence - the homeo box. These genes function in the morphogenetic programming of early Drosophila development and genes homologous to the homeo box have been found in a wide variety of higher animals including mouse and human. A very realistic possibility is that the homeo box may enable the identification and cloning of genes controlling the patterning of early mammalian development. Dr. McGinnis is attempting to determine whether the homeo box encodes part of the morphogenetic programming function of homeotic genes. He is also studying the nature of the genetic functions that are included in the Drosophila gene family with homeo box homology. In addition he will determine what role the homeo box genes of the mouse play in development. Dr. McGinnis has made substantial contributions to the field of Developmental Biology by his discovery of the homeo box. The Program recommends support for this outstanding young investigator.
