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Developmental Patterning as a Quantitative Trait: Genetic Modulation of the Hoxb6 Mutant Skeletal Phenotype
1Department of Developmental Biology, Pennington Biomedical Research Center/Louisiana State University System, 6400 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70808, United States of America.
Plos One
|January 23, 2016
Summary
Hoxb6 gene controls skeletal patterning at the cervico-thoracic junction. Its function is modulated by genetic factors, establishing skeletal pattern as a quantitative trait influenced by gene interactions.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Genetics
- Skeletal biology
Background:
- Vertebrate anterior-posterior axis patterning is a conserved process.
- Hox genes are crucial for skeletal development, particularly in the vertebral column and limbs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Hoxb6 in skeletal patterning at the cervico-thoracic junction.
- To explore how genetic factors modulate Hoxb6 function in skeletal development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Hoxb6 function in skeletal elements.
- Investigating gene-gene interactions affecting Hoxb6 activity.
Main Results:
- Hoxb6 controls multiple independent aspects of skeletal pattern at the cervico-thoracic junction.
- Hoxb6 function is modulated by genetic factors, indicating gene-gene interactions.
Conclusions:
- Hox-controlled skeletal pattern is a quantitative trait.
- Distinct genetic modifiers influence the function of conserved developmental genes like Hoxb6.
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