Proximal to distal patterning is governed by the PZ. The first cells to leave the PZ have a proximal identity as these cells have been in the PZ for a shorter amount of time than those that leave the PZ last, which have a distal identity. The "identity" of the cell is achieved by the HOX - A gene expression in that cells that leave the PZ early have fewer HOX - A genes expressed than those which leave later. Less HOX - A gene expression results in a more proximal cell appearance.
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*The first cells to leave the PZ have a proximal identity.
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*These cells have been in the PZ for a shorter amount of time than those that leave the PZ last, which have a distal identity.
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*"Identity" is achieved by the HOX - A gene expression.
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**Cells that leave the PZ early have fewer HOX - A genes expressed than those which leave later.
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**Less HOX - A gene expression results in a more proximal cell appearance.