Related Experiment Videos
Expression of p73 and Reelin in the developing human cortex
Gundela Meyer1, Carlos Gustavo Perez-Garcia, Hajnalka Abraham
1Department of Anatomy, University La Laguna, 38071 Tenerife, Spain. gmeyer@ull.es
Summary
The p73 protein is crucial for Reelin-expressing Cajal-Retzius cells in the developing neocortex, guiding neuronal migration and development. Its absence disrupts these cells, impacting cortical formation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells in the developing neocortex secrete Reelin (Reln), a key glycoprotein for neuronal migration.
- CR cells express p73, a p53 family member involved in cell survival and apoptosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of p73 in the development and migration of Reelin-expressing Cajal-Retzius cells in the human neocortex.
- To elucidate the relationship between p73 and Reelin during cortical development.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry on prenatal human telencephalon.
- Analysis of p73-deficient mice (p73-/-) at embryonic day 12 (E12) and postnatal day 2 (P2).
- Detection of p73 and Reelin expression patterns and neuronal migration.
Main Results:
- p73 and Reelin-immunoreactive cells exhibit complex migration waves into the cortical marginal zone.
- p73 marks a novel cell population originating from the cortical hem, potentially migrating tangentially.
- Absence of p73 in mice leads to undetectable Reelin-expressing CR cells, indicating a p73-mediated role.
Conclusions:
- p73 and Reelin are closely associated in developing neocortical CR cells.
- The cortical hem, mediated by p73, plays a significant role in neocortical development.
- p73 is essential for the proper development and migration of Reelin-positive Cajal-Retzius cells.