Structural Basis for Partial Redundancy in a Class of Transcription Factors, the LIM Homeodomain Proteins, in Neural Cell Type Specification

Background: Lhx and Isl proteins contribute to genetic control in developing neurons. Results: The Lhx3/4-binding motif in Isl2 was identified, and the structures of Lhx-Isl complexes were characterized and compared. Conclusion: There are minor differences in the structures of Lhx3/4 binding Isl1/2 reflected by mutational and biophysical analyses. Significance: Redundant sets of interactions conserve function in developing neurons while allowing divergence in other contexts.