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Updated: May 10, 2026
09:29
Genetic Modification and Recombination of Salivary Gland Organ Cultures
Published on: January 28, 2013
Salivary gland organogenesis
Wendy M Knosp1, Sarah M Knox, Matthew P Hoffman
1Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, LCDB, NIDCR, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews. Developmental Biology
|June 27, 2013
Summary
This review details mouse submandibular gland (SMG) development, exploring epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and stem cell roles in salivary gland organogenesis for potential regenerative therapies.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The developing mouse submandibular gland (SMG) is a key model for studying vertebrate salivary gland organogenesis.
- Understanding SMG development involves analyzing epithelial-mesenchymal interactions, growth factor-extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics, and branching morphogenesis.
- Salivary gland formation relies on intricate communication between epithelial, neuronal, and mesenchymal cells within their specific microenvironment (niche).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the molecular mechanisms driving salivary gland development.
- To elucidate the processes of SMG organogenesis, including signaling pathways and cellular behaviors.
- To highlight advances in identifying and understanding the role of stem/progenitor cells in SMG formation.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on salivary gland organogenesis.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and cellular processes involved in SMG development.
- Focus on stem/progenitor cell identification and differentiation in the SMG.
Main Results:
- Recent literature provides conceptual advances in understanding the molecular basis of salivary gland development.
- Key signaling pathways and cellular processes governing SMG organogenesis have been identified.
- Research is advancing the identification and directed differentiation of stem/progenitor cells within the SMG.
Conclusions:
- The mechanisms of SMG organogenesis offer a framework for regenerating salivary glands in patients with hypofunction.
- Understanding these developmental processes may aid in treating conditions caused by glandular damage.
- Insights into SMG development could inform the growth and development of other organ systems.
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