Genetic Cues in Developing Hindbrain
Author Information
Author(s): David Chambers, Leigh Jane Wilson, Fabienne Alfonsi, Ewan Hunter, Uma Saxena, Eric Blanc, Andew Lumsden
Primary Institution: MRC Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London
Hypothesis
What are the genetic cues expressed across the developing hindbrain?
Conclusion
The study identified hundreds of previously undescribed genes expressed in the developing mouse hindbrain, suggesting multiple unexplored mechanisms of Hox gene regulation.
Supporting Evidence
- The study provides a comprehensive set of potential Hox target genes in the developing hindbrain.
- Data suggests a new retinoic acid signaling system in ventral rhombomere 4.
- Identified genes may contribute to the generation of neuronal subtypes characteristic of each rhombomere.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at the genes in the developing brain of mice to understand how they help shape the brain's structure and function.
Methodology
Microarray analysis of transcriptomes from individual rhombomeres of wild-type mouse embryos.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from using pooled samples and the limitations of microarray sensitivity.
Limitations
The study may miss some genes due to the complexity of gene expression in heterogeneous neuronal populations.
Participant Demographics
Wild-type CD1 mouse embryos at embryonic day 9.5.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website