Effect of sonic hedgehog on motor neuron positioning in the spinal cord during chicken embryonic development

J Cell Mol Med, 2019 · DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14254 · Published: May 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how Sonic hedgehog (SHH), a key signaling molecule, affects the positioning of motor neurons in the developing spinal cord of chicken embryos. The researchers used in ovo electroporation to introduce extra SHH into the spinal cord and then examined the resulting effects on gene expression and cell location. The findings indicate that ectopic SHH expression disrupts the normal organization of the motor column and leads to the formation of more ventral neurons.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Chicken embryos

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Ectopic expression of SHH leads to ventralization in the spinal cord, causing abnormalities in the motor column structure and motor neuron integration.
2
Ectopic SHH expression inhibits the expression of dorsal transcription factors (Pax3 and Pax7) and disrupts commissural axon projections.
3
The correct location of SHH expression is crucial for the proper formation of the motor column.

Research Summary

This study investigates the role of Sonic hedgehog (SHH) in motor neuron positioning within the developing chicken spinal cord using in ovo electroporation to misexpress SHH. The results showed that ectopic SHH expression leads to ventralization of the spinal cord, affecting the structure of the motor column, motor neuron integration, and the expression of dorsal transcription factors. The study concludes that the correct spatial expression of SHH is vital for proper motor column formation and neuronal positioning during spinal cord development.

Practical Implications

Understanding Spinal Cord Development

Provides insights into the molecular mechanisms governing motor neuron development and spinal cord patterning.

Implications for Neural Tube Defects

Offers a better understanding of the causes of neural tube defects related to SHH signaling.

Potential Therapeutic Applications

Informs potential therapeutic strategies for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases by manipulating SHH signaling.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to chicken embryos; results may not be directly transferable to other species.
2
The precise molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of SHH on motor neuron positioning require further investigation.
3
The study focuses primarily on the effects of SHH overexpression; the effects of SHH downregulation were not examined.

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