MESP2

Mesoderm posterior protein 2 (MESP2), also known as class C basic helix-loop-helix protein 6 (bHLHc6), is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the MESP2 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
This gene encodes a member of the bHLH family of is_associated_with::transcription factors and plays a key role in defining the rostrocaudal patterning of is_associated_with::somites via interactions with multiple is_associated_with::Notch signaling pathways. This gene is expressed in the anterior presomitic is_associated_with::mesoderm and is downregulated immediately after the formation of segmented somites. This gene also plays a role in the formation of epithelial somitic mesoderm and cardiac mesoderm. In zebrafish, the homolog mesp-b is critical for dermomyotome development.

Clinical significance
Mutations in the MESP2 gene cause autosomal recessive is_associated_with::Spondylocostal dysostosis type 2.