| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2177223 | Developmental Cell | 2010 | 7 Pages |
SummaryHox genes are essential for the patterning of the axial skeleton. Hox group 10 has been shown to specify the lumbar domain by setting a rib-inhibiting program in the presomitic mesoderm (PSM). We have now produced mice with ribs in every vertebra by ectopically expressing Hox group 6 in the PSM, indicating that Hox genes are also able to specify the thoracic domain. We show that the information provided by Hox genes to specify rib-containing and rib-less areas is first interpreted in the myotome through the regional-specific control of Myf5 and Myf6 expression. This information is then transmitted to the sclerotome by a system that includes FGF and PDGF signaling to produce vertebrae with or without ribs at different axial levels. Our findings offer a new perspective of how Hox genes produce global patterns in the axial skeleton and support a redundant nonmyogenic role of Myf5 and Myf6 in rib formation.
Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (359 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Hox group 6 genes are able to induce ribs ► Hox group 6 and 10 proteins regulate Myf5/Myf6 expression in the hypaxial myotome ► Myf5 and Myf6 have a redundant nonmyogenic role in rib development ► Myf5/Myf6 convey information to the sclerotome using a cell nonautonomous mechanism
