Abstract
Craniofacial abnormalities have recently been given special attention because of a rise in the number of microcephaly cases associated with the spread of the Zika virus. Microcephaly, however, is just one of various common craniofacial deformities that can occur in vertebrates during development. Since craniofacial development is well‐conserved across vertebrates, numerous model organisms can be utilized to study craniofacial development. To that end, our lab takes advantage of the tractable amphibian model system, Xenopus laevis. Our recent studies revealed pre‐metamorphic Xenopus tadpoles can self‐correct craniofacial defects induced by exposure to thioridazine HCl, a D2 dopamine receptor antagonist. The underlying molecular mechanism mediating this correction is unknown, and is thus the focus of our current work. Previously the Levin lab discovered that several developmental events, including the regulation of organ placement and cell movements during gastrulation, are mediated by neurotransmitters during development. Since the self‐correction of craniofacial defects includes both cell movement and tissue positioning, we are currently investigating whether the remodeling response is initiated and/or mediated by neurotransmitter‐dependent cellular pathways. Our current study utilized fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, to block a candidate pathway throughout pre‐metamorphic stages in tadpoles. These experiments will help elucidate which signaling mechanism directs the correction of malformed craniofacial structures in tadpoles during pre‐metamorphic stages.Support or Funding InformationThe Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group, National Science Foundation, and American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.