The Chronological Trigger: The Orchestra Between Homeobox Genes and the Circadian Clock During Development.

As master regulators of embryonic development, regulating homeobox genes is fundamental for developmental biology. Despite the growth of multiple topics regarding fine-tuning homeobox gene expression, the discussion on how the circadian rhythm affects their control and vice-versa still needs to be improved. Due to the intrinsic importance of the circadian clock and its impact on several molecular mechanisms, including development and pregnancy, the interplay between this mechanism and homeobox genes becomes a meaningful discussion. This work aims to review and critically discuss the crosstalk between homeobox genes and circadian regulation in multiple organisms, focusing on differentiation and developmental mechanisms. A considerable focus is given to new perspectives on the topic.