HoxB8 in noradrenergic specification and differentiation of the autonomic nervous system

► First Hox gene expression analysis in the developing autonomic nervous system. ► HoxB genes are expressed by sympathetic but not ciliary and enteric neurons. ► HoxB8 strongly increases the expression of Hand2, TH and DBH in ciliary neurons. ► HoxB8 is implied in the maintenance of noradrenergic traits in sympathetic neurons.