About Site Map Contact Us |A service of the U.S. National
Library of Medicine®| On this page: Reviewed December 2009 What
is the official name of the TBX5 gene? The official name of this
gene is “T-box 5.” TBX5 is the gene's official symbol. The TBX5
gene is also known by other names, listed below. Read more about
gene names and symbols on the About page. What is the normal
function of the TBX5 gene? The TBX5 gene provides instructions
for making a protein called T-box 5 that plays an important role
in the formation of tissues and organs during embryonic
development. This protein regulates the activity of other genes
by attaching (binding) to specific regions of DNA. On the basis
of this action, the T-box 5 protein is called a transcription
factor. During embryonic development, the T-box 5 protein turns
on (activates) genes involved in the normal development of the
hands and arms (upper limbs). The T-box 5 protein also activates
genes that play an important role in the growth and development
of the heart. Thi