The Decapentaplegic morphogen gradient: from pattern formation to growth regulation
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Imaging Dpp Release from a Drosophila Wing Disc
Published on: October 30, 2019
Markus Affolter1, Konrad Basler
1Biozentrum der Universität Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 70, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland. markus.affolter@unibas.ch
Abstract:
Morphogens have been linked to numerous developmental processes, including organ patterning and the control of organ size. Here we review how different experimental approaches have led to an unprecedented level of molecular knowledge about the patterning role of the Drosophila melanogaster morphogen Decapentaplegic (DPP, the homologue of vertebrate bone morphogenetic protein, or BMP), the first validated secreted morphogen. In addition, we discuss how little is known about the role of the DPP morphogen in the control of organ growth and organ size. Continued efforts to elucidate the role of DPP in D. melanogaster is likely to shed light on this fundamental question in the near future.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Morphogenesis
Determination
Notch Signaling Pathway
The Notch gene came into the limelight in 1914 after the discovery that its mutation in Drosophila melanogaster leads to a serrated (or "notched") wing margin phenotype. It was not until 1985...
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Hedgehog Signaling Pathway
TGF - β Signaling Pathway

