Related Experiment Videos
FGF-FGFR signaling in vertebrate organogenesis
1Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Japan. uskato@hongo.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp
Abstract:
Fibroblast growth factor and FGF receptor (FGFR) system play significant roles in many biological events including pattern formation in many tissues during vertebrate embryogenesis at early stages. The functions of each of FGFs and their receptors have recently been revealed by a variety of approaches among species. We have recently generated FGF10-deficient mice by gene targeting. This KO mice had complete truncation of the fore-and hindlimbs and with no lung. Analyses of the embryos and marker gene expression showed that FGF10 triggers sequential events, which are essential for formations of limb and lung. Focusing on FGF10 function, the FGF-FGFR system is discussed.
Insights
Fibroblast Growth Factor 10 (FGF10) is crucial for vertebrate limb and lung development. FGF10 deficiency in mice resulted in truncated limbs and absent lungs, highlighting its essential role in embryogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) and FGF receptor (FGFR) system is vital for embryonic development.
- Understanding specific FGF roles, like FGF10, is key to deciphering pattern formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of FGF10 in vertebrate embryogenesis.
- To analyze the developmental consequences of FGF10 deficiency.
Main Methods:
- Gene targeting to create FGF10-deficient (KO) mice.
- Embryo analysis and marker gene expression studies.
Main Results:
- FGF10-deficient mice exhibited complete truncation of forelimbs and hindlimbs.
- These mice also showed a complete absence of lung development.
- FGF10 was identified as a trigger for sequential events essential for limb and lung formation.
Conclusions:
- FGF10 plays an indispensable role in the development of limbs and lungs.
- The FGF-FGFR system, particularly FGF10, is critical for early vertebrate pattern formation.