Introduction to Hox modules in evolution and development

Hox genes revolutionised the field of evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo), giving us unprecedented insight into how the animal kingdom evolved from a molecular perspective. The fields of developmental and evolutionary biology overlap significantly and are mutually beneficial, and this synergy manifests itself as evo-devo, demonstrating that neither field can be properly understood without the other. Hox genes are key to this endeavour. We are now embarking on a new revolution in Hox biology, stimulated by significant technical developments in genome sequencing and functional genetics. These new techniques are releasing us from the previous constraints of having to focus on genetically tractable ‘model species’ to obtain molecular mechanistic insights. Understanding the origins of the beautiful diversity of animal life is now within our reach, and this book provides a window on how we are starting out on this exciting journey.