Homeobox protein MIXL1 (Mixl1)

Transcription factor that play a central role in proper axial mesendoderm morphogenesis and endoderm formation. Required for efficient differentiation of cells from the primitive streak stage to blood, by acting early in the recruitment and/or expansion of mesodermal progenitors into the hemangioblastic and hematopoietic lineages.

Also involved in the morphogenesis of the heart and the gut during embryogenesis. Acts as a negative regulator of brachyury expression.