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Programmed cell death during retinal development of the mouse eye
Barbara M Braunger1, Cora Demmer, Ernst R Tamm
1Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Similar to other parts of the central nervous system, there are two types of programmed cell death during retinal development. In early development, the neuronal progenitor population is affected. In the mouse eye, this kind of programmed cell death begins at around embryonic day (E) 12.5 and peaks between E14.5 and E16.5. The second phase of programmed cell death occurs during synaptogenesis within the first 2 postnatal weeks. Important signaling mechanisms that induce programmed cell death of retinal progenitors appear to involve nerve growth factor acting on the proapoptotic receptor to p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75(NTR)) and transforming growth factor-β.
Insights
Programmed cell death occurs in two phases during retinal development, impacting neuronal progenitors early on and during later synaptogenesis. Key signaling pathways involve nerve growth factor and transforming growth factor-β.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Programmed cell death (PCD) is crucial for normal development in the central nervous system.
- Retinal development involves distinct phases of cell proliferation, differentiation, and programmed cell death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal dynamics and signaling mechanisms of programmed cell death during mouse retinal development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of programmed cell death timing during embryonic and postnatal retinal development in mice.
- Identification of key molecular signaling pathways implicated in retinal progenitor cell death.
Main Results:
- Two distinct phases of programmed cell death were identified: one affecting neuronal progenitors during embryonic development (E12.5-E16.5) and another during postnatal synaptogenesis.
- Signaling pathways involving nerve growth factor acting on the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75(NTR)) and transforming growth factor-β were implicated in inducing progenitor cell death.
Conclusions:
- Programmed cell death is a regulated process occurring in at least two distinct phases during retinal development.
- Specific signaling molecules, including nerve growth factor and transforming growth factor-β, play significant roles in mediating retinal progenitor cell death.
