Abstract
Fgf8 functions as an organizer at the mes/metencephalic boundary (isthmus). We showed that a strong Fgf8 signal activates the Ras-ERK signaling pathway to organize cerebellar differentiation. Sprouty2 is expressed in an overlapping manner to Fgf8, and is induced by Fgf8. Its function, however, is indicated to antagonize Ras-ERK signaling. Here, we show the regulation of Fgf8 signaling in relation to Sprouty2. sprouty2 expression was induced very rapidly by Fgf8b, but interfered with ERK activation. sprouty2 misexpression resulted in a fate change of the presumptive metencephalon to the mesencephalon. Misexpression of a dominant negative form of Sprouty2 augmented ERK activation, and resulted in anterior shift of the posterior border of the tectum. The results indicate that Fgf8 activates the Ras-ERK signaling pathway to differentiate the cerebellum, and that the hyper- or hypo-signaling of this pathway affects the fate of the brain vesicles. Sprouty2 may regulate the Fgf8-Ras-ERK signaling pathway for the proper regionalization of the metencephalon and mesencephalon.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
