Requirement for the Homeobox Gene Hb9 in the Consolidation of Motor Neuron Identity
Copyright policy )Requirement for the Homeobox Gene Hb9 in the Consolidation of Motor Neuron Identity
The homeobox gene Hb9, like its close relative MNR2, is expressed selectively by motor neurons (MNs) in the developing vertebrate CNS. In embryonic chick spinal cord, the ectopic expression of MNR2 or Hb9 is sufficient to trigger MN differentiation and to repress the differentiation of an adjacent population of V2 interneurons. Here, we provide genetic evidence that Hb9 has an essential role in MN differentiation. In mice lacking Hb9 function, MNs are generated on schedule and in normal numbers but transiently acquire molecular features of V2 interneurons. The aberrant specification of MN identity is associated with defects in the migration of MNs, the emergence of the subtype identities of MNs, and the projection of motor axons. These findings show that HB9 has an essential function in consolidating the identity of postmitotic MNs.
- University of Basel Switzerland
- King’s University United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute United States
Homeodomain Proteins, Motor Neurons, Neuroscience(all), LIM-Homeodomain Proteins, Genes, Homeobox, Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental, Cell Differentiation, Mice, Transgenic, Nerve Tissue Proteins, Chick Embryo, Immunohistochemistry, Axons, Mice, Spinal Cord, Cell Movement, Interneurons, Animals, Transgenes, Muscle, Skeletal, In Situ Hybridization, Transcription Factors
Homeodomain Proteins, Motor Neurons, Neuroscience(all), LIM-Homeodomain Proteins, Genes, Homeobox, Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental, Cell Differentiation, Mice, Transgenic, Nerve Tissue Proteins, Chick Embryo, Immunohistochemistry, Axons, Mice, Spinal Cord, Cell Movement, Interneurons, Animals, Transgenes, Muscle, Skeletal, In Situ Hybridization, Transcription Factors
citations This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).540 popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.Top 1% influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).Top 1% impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.Top 1%
Citations provided by BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!