Cloning and expression analysis of the mouse T-box gene Tbx18.

T-box genes encode transcription factors that regulate a variety of developmental processes. In this report, we describe the cloning and expression analysis of the novel mouse T-box gene Tbx18. During development expression is most prominent in the proepicardial organ and in the epicardium of the heart. Other sites of expression include the cranial paraxial mesoderm, the presomitic mesoderm, the anterior somite half, the genital ridge, and the developing limb buds.