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Nodal induces ectopic goosecoid and lim1 expression and axis duplication in zebrafish
R Toyama1, M L O'Connell, C V Wright
1Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Development (Cambridge, England)
|February 1, 1995
Summary
The nodal gene, a TGF-beta superfamily member, is crucial for vertebrate embryonic development. Injecting nodal mRNA into zebrafish embryos induced ectopic axes, suggesting its role in pattern formation.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Intercellular signaling initiates mesoderm formation and axis determination in vertebrate embryos.
- The nodal gene, a TGF-beta superfamily member, is implicated in mouse mesoderm development and dorsal axis formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biological activities of nodal in axis determination.
- To examine the role of nodal-like factors in zebrafish pattern formation.
Main Methods:
- Injection of nodal mRNA into zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos.
- Analysis of gene expression patterns, including gsc and lim1, in injected embryos.
- Isolation and expression analysis of the lim1 gene in the shield region.
Main Results:
- Injection of nodal mRNA resulted in the formation of ectopic axes, including notochord and somites.
- Axis duplication was preceded by the formation of an ectopic shield (organizer equivalent).
- Over-expression of gsc and lim1 was observed in the ectopic shield region.
Conclusions:
- Nodal plays a significant role in inducing ectopic axis formation in zebrafish.
- A nodal-like factor is likely involved in pattern formation during zebrafish embryogenesis.
- The study provides insights into conserved mechanisms of axial patterning across vertebrates.