MSX1 have roles in limb-pattern formation, there is also strong evidence from sequencing studies and mutation in this gene associated with Witkop syndrome which was first described in 1965.
It may also have roles in limb-pattern formation, craniofacial development, in particular, odontogenesis, and tumor growth inhibition. There is also strong evidence from sequencing studies of candidate genes involved in clefting that mutations in the MSX1 gene may be associated in the pathogenesis of cleft lip and palate. Mutations in this gene, which was once known as homeobox 7, have also been associated with Witkop syndrome, Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, and autosomal dominant hypodontia. Tooth and nail syndrome (also known as "Hypodontia with nail dysgenesis," and "Witkop syndrome") is a rare disorder, first described in 1965, characterized by nails that are thin, small, and friable, and which may show koilonychia at birth. 
