NKX2-6 (NK2 homeobox 6) is a member of a family of transcription factors that are involved in embryonic development and cell fate. NKX2-6 is a vertebrate homolog of Drosophila homeobox-containing protein called 'tinman', which has been shown to be essential for development of the heart-like dorsal vessel. In conjunction with related gene, NKX2-5, this gene may play a role in both pharyngeal and cardiac embryonic development. Mutations in this gene are thought to be a cause for some congenital heart abnormalities.Synonyms: Homeobox protein Nkx-2.6, NKX2F, Nkx-2.6