Click here to close Hello! We notice that you are using Internet Explorer, which is not supported by Xenbase and may cause the site to display incorrectly. We suggest using a current version of Chrome, FireFox, or Safari.
XB-ART-12353
Neuron 1999 Aug 01;234:675-87. doi: 10.1016/s0896-6273(01)80027-1.
Show Gene links Show Anatomy links

Active suppression of interneuron programs within developing motor neurons revealed by analysis of homeodomain factor HB9.

Thaler J , Harrison K , Sharma K , Lettieri K , Kehrl J , Pfaff SL .


???displayArticle.abstract???
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) specifies the identity of both motor neurons (MNs) and interneurons with morphogen-like activity. Here, we present evidence that the homeodomain factor HB9 is critical for distinguishing MN and interneuron identity in the mouse. Presumptive MN progenitors and postmitotic MNs express HB9, whereas interneurons never express this factor. This pattern resembles a composite of the avian homologs MNR2 and HB9. In mice lacking Hb9, the genetic profile of MNs is significantly altered, particularly by upregulation of Chx10, a gene normally restricted to a class of ventral interneurons. This aberrant gene expression is accompanied by topological disorganization of motor columns, loss of the phrenic and abducens nerves, and intercostal nerve pathfinding defects. Thus, MNs actively suppress interneuron genetic programs to establish their identity.

???displayArticle.pubmedLink??? 10482235
???displayArticle.link??? Neuron
???displayArticle.grants??? [+]

Species referenced: Xenopus laevis
Genes referenced: mnx1 shh vsx2

References :
Eisen, A case of mistaken identity. 1999, Pubmed