Homeobox protein NKX-6.1 is a transcription factor required for the formation and secretory function of insulin-producing beta cells within the pancreas [, , ]. To promote proper differentiation and function of beta-cells, Nkx6.1 binds to specific A/T-rich DNA sequences in the promoter regions of relevant genes and regulate their transcription [, ]. In fully differentiated beta-cells, Nkx6.1 is necessary for the normal insulin secretory response [].Nkx6.1 also has been implicated in the regulation of migration and axon pathfinding of motoneurons [, , ].
