Synonyms:ALX homeobox 1, ALX homeobox protein 1, ALX1, CART 1, CART1, Cartilage homeoprotein 1 Background:Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factor that binds palindromic sequences within promoters and may activate or repress the transcription of a subset of genes(PubMed:9753625, PubMed:8756334). Most probably regulates the expression of genes involved in the development of mesenchyme-derived craniofacial structures. Early on in development, it plays a role in forebrain mesenchyme survival(PubMed:20451171). May also induce epithelial to mesenchymal transition(EMT) through the expression of SNAI1(PubMed:23288509).