Homeobox genes are an evolutionarily conserved class of transcription factors 
that are critical for development of many organ systems, including the brain and 
eye. During retinogenesis, homeodomain-containing transcription factors, which 
are encoded by homeobox genes, play essential roles in the regionalization and 
patterning of the optic neuroepithelium, specification of retinal progenitors 
and differentiation of all seven of the retinal cell classes that derive from a 
common progenitor. Homeodomain transcription factors control retinal cell fate 
by regulating the expression of target genes required for retinal progenitor 
cell fate decisions and for terminal differentiation of specific retinal cell 
types. The essential role of homeobox genes during retinal development is 
demonstrated by the number of human eye diseases, including colobomas and 
anophthalmia, which are attributed to homeobox gene mutations. In the following 
review, we highlight the role of homeodomain transcription factors during 
retinogenesis and regulation of their gene targets. Understanding the 
complexities of vertebrate retina development will enhance our ability to drive 
differentiation of specific retinal cell types towards novel cell-based 
replacement therapies for retinal degenerative diseases.