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DLX genes and proteins in mammalian forebrain development
John L Rubenstein1, Alex S Nord2, Marc Ekker3
1UCSF Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Nina Ireland Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
Development (Cambridge, England)
|May 31, 2024
Summary
Vertebrate Dlx genes are essential transcription factors for embryonic development. Research over 35 years reveals their critical roles in mammalian forebrain development, particularly in GABAergic neuron differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Vertebrate Dlx genes encode homeobox transcription factors vital for development.
- These genes are homologous to Drosophila Distal-less (Dll).
- Six mammalian Dlx genes exhibit redundant and unique expression patterns and functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the discovery and crucial roles of vertebrate Dlx genes in embryonic development.
- To focus on the function of Dlx genes in mammalian forebrain development, primarily using mouse models.
- To identify outstanding questions in vertebrate Dlx gene research after over 30 years.
Main Methods:
- Review of genetic and biochemical data.
- Analysis of gene expression and functional studies in mice.
- Integration of findings to understand gene regulatory networks.
Main Results:
- Dlx proteins interact with transcriptional regulators.
- Co-binding of DLX proteins with other factors to specific enhancer elements in the developing forebrain.
- Established a foundation for a gene regulatory network controlling forebrain GABAergic neuron differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Vertebrate Dlx genes are fundamental for embryonic development.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding Dlx gene function in mammalian forebrain development.
- Further research is needed to address remaining questions regarding vertebrate Dlx genes.
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