The FOX family of transcription factors share a common DIUA binding domain termed a winged-helix or forkhead domain. Many FOX proteins play important roles in development, metabolism, cancer and aging. Development of the vertebrate gut is controlled by paracrine crosstalk between the endodermal epithelium and the associated splanchnic mesoderm. FOXF2 (forkhead box F2), also known as FKHL or FREAC2, is expressed in lung and placenta, and has been shown to transcriptionally activate several lung-specific genes. FOXF2 interacts with transcription factors TFIIB and TBP, and may be involved in regulating transcription in embryogenesis and pattern formation in multicellular organisms. FOXF2-deficient mice develop cleft palate and an abnormal tongue, which suggests that FOXF2 may be critical for palatogenesis.
