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Msh homeobox genes regulate cadherin-mediated cell adhesion and cell-cell sorting
J M Lincecum1, A Fannon, K Song
1Joint Program in Neonatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
|June 19, 1998
Summary
Homeobox genes Msx-1 and Msx-2 influence cell sorting and proliferation. These Msh genes regulate cadherin-mediated cell adhesion, linking gene expression to morphogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Msx-1 and Msx-2 are homeobox genes crucial in development.
- They are expressed in areas of cell segregation, proliferation, and epithelial-mesenchymal interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between Msh homeobox genes (Msx-1, Msx-2) and cadherin-mediated cell adhesion and sorting.
- To determine if Msh genes regulate cell-cell interactions during morphogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cell lines stably expressing Msx-1 or Msx-2.
- Performed in vitro experiments to assess cell aggregation and adhesion.
- Investigated the role of calcium-dependent adhesion molecules (cadherins).
Main Results:
- Cell lines expressing Msx-1 or Msx-2 exhibited differential cell sorting based on Msh gene expression.
- Msh genes were found to regulate cadherin-mediated cell adhesion.
- Initial cell aggregation involved calcium-dependent adhesion molecules.
Conclusions:
- Msh genes play a significant role in regulating cell-cell adhesion.
- Establishes a link between homeobox gene expression and cellular events like cell sorting and proliferation in morphogenesis.