Abstract
The developing vertebrate hindbrain consists of segments known as rhombomeres, which express combinations of Hox
genes implicated in specifying segmental identity. Using chick–chick
and chick– transgenic mouse graftings, we show that anterior to
posterior rhombomere transpositions result in a progressive posterior
transformation and coordinate induction of new Hox expression.
This shows that hindbrain plasticity is evolutionarily conserved and
implies rhombomeres may be undergoing continual assessment of their
identities. The nature of the changes is dependent on both the
anteroposterior position of the graft and its origin. Transposed somites
from specific axial levels and developmental stages have a graded
ability to induce changes in Hox expression, indicating that paraxial mesoderm is a source of the environmental signal responsible for the plasticity.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 487-500 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Neuron |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Mar 1996 |
Keywords
- Animals
- Brain Tissue Transplantation
- Chick Embryo
- Gene Expression
- In Situ Hybridization
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neuronal Plasticity
- Rhombencephalon