Showing papers in "Development in 1996"

The identification of genes with unique and essential functions in the development of the zebrafish, Danio rerio

Abstract: In a large-scale screen, we isolated mutants displaying a specific visible phenotype in embryos or early larvae of the zebrafish, Danio rerio. Males were mutagenized with ethylnitrosourea (ENU) and F2 families of single pair matings between sibling F1 fish, heterozygous for a mutagenized genome, were raised. Egg lays were obtained from several crosses between F2 siblings, resulting in scoring of 3857 mutagenized genomes. F3 progeny were scored at the second, third and sixth day of development, using a stereomicroscope. In a subsequent screen, fixed embryos were analyzed for correct retinotectal projection. A total of 4264 mutants were identified. Two thirds of the mutants displaying rather general abnormalities were eventually discarded. We kept and characterized 1163 mutants. In complementation crosses performed between mutants with similar phenotypes, 894 mutants have been assigned to 372 genes. The average allele frequency is 2.4. We identified genes involved in early development, notochord, brain, spinal cord, somites, muscles, heart, circulation, blood, skin, fin, eye, otic vesicle, jaw and branchial arches, pigment pattern, pigment formation, gut, liver, motility and touch response. Our collection contains alleles of almost all previously described zebrafish mutants. From the allele frequencies and other considerations we estimate that the 372 genes defined by the mutants probably represent more than half of all genes that could have been discovered using the criteria of our screen. Here we give an overview of the spectrum of mutant phenotypes obtained, and discuss the limits and the potentials of a genetic saturation screen in the zebrafish.

PDX-1 is required for pancreatic outgrowth and differentiation of the rostral duodenum

Abstract: It has been proposed that the Xenopus homeobox gene, XlHbox8, is involved in endodermal differentiation during pancreatic and duodenal development (Wright, C.V.E., Schnegelsberg, P. and De Robertis, E.M. (1988). Development 105, 787–794). To test this hypothesis directly, gene targeting was used to make two different null mutations in the mouse XlHbox8 homolog, pdx-1. In the first, the second pdx-1 exon, including the homeobox, was replaced by a neomycin resistance cassette. In the second, a lacZ reporter was fused in-frame with the N terminus of PDX-1, replacing most of the homeodomain. Neonatal pdx-1 −/− mice are apancreatic, in confirmation of previous reports (Jonsson, J., Carlsson, L., Edlund, T. and Edlund, H. (1994). Nature 371, 606–609). However, the pancreatic buds do form in homozygous mutants, and the dorsal bud undergoes limited proliferation and outgrowth to form a small, irregularly branched, ductular tree. This outgrowth does not contain insulin or amylase-positive cells, but glucagon-expressing cells are found. The rostral duodenum shows a local absence of the normal columnar epithelial lining, villi, and Brunner's glands, which are replaced by a GLUT2-positive cuboidal epithelium resembling the bile duct lining. Just distal of the abnormal epithelium, the numbers of enteroendocrine cells in the villi are greatly reduced. The PDX-1/beta-galactosidase fusion allele is expressed in pancreatic and duodenal cells in the absence of functional PDX-1, with expression continuing into perinatal stages with similar boundaries and expression levels. These results offer additional insight into the role of pdx-1 in the determination and differentiation of the posterior foregut, particularly regarding the proliferation and differentiation of the pancreatic progenitors.

A genetic screen for mutations affecting embryogenesis in zebrafish

Abstract: Systematic genome-wide mutagenesis screens for embryonic phenotypes have been instrumental in the understanding of invertebrate and plant development. Here, we report the results from the first application of such a large-scale genetic screening to vertebrate development. Male zebrafish were mutagenized with N-ethyl N-nitrosourea to induce mutations in spermatogonial cells at an average specific locus rate of one in 651 mutagenized genomes. Mutations were transmitted to the F1 generation, and 2205 F2 families were raised. F3 embryos from sibling crosses within the F2 families were screened for developmental abnormalities. A total of 2337 mutagenized genomes were analyzed, and 2383 mutations resulting in abnormal embryonic and early larval phenotypes were identified. The phenotypes of 695 mutants indicated involvement of the identified loci in specific aspects of embryogenesis. These mutations were maintained for further characterization and were classified into categories according to their phenotypes. The analyses and genetic complementation of mutations from several categories are reported in separate manuscripts. Mutations affecting pigmentation, motility, muscle and body shape have not been extensively analyzed and are listed here. A total of 331 mutations were tested for allelism within their respective categories. This defined 220 genetic loci with on average 1.5 alleles per locus. For about two-thirds of all loci only one allele was isolated. Therefore it is not possible to give a reliable estimate on the degree of saturation reached in our screen; however, the number of genes that can mutate to visible embryonic and early larval phenotypes in zebrafish is expected to be several-fold larger than the one for which we have observed mutant alleles during the screen. This screen demonstrates that mutations affecting a variety of developmental processes can be efficiently recovered from zebrafish.

The WUSCHEL gene is required for shoot and floral meristem integrity in Arabidopsis.

Abstract: Self perpetuation of the shoot meristem is essential for the repetitive initiation of shoot structures during plant development. In Arabidopsis shoot meristem maintenance is disrupted by recessive mutations in the WUSCHEL (WUS) gene. The defect is evident at all developmental stages and is restricted to shoot and floral meristems, whereas the root meristem is not affected. wus mutants fail to properly organize a shoot meristem in the embryo. Postembryonically, defective shoot meristems are initiated repetitively but terminate prematurely in aberrant flat structures. In contrast to wild-type shoot meristems, primordia initiation occurs ectopically across mutant apices, including the center, and often new shoot meristems instead of organs are initiated. The cells of wus shoot apices are larger and more vacuolated than wild-type shoot meristem cells. wus floral meristems terminate prematurely in a central stamen. Double mutant studies indicate that the number of organ primordia in the center of wus flowers is limited, irrespective of organ identity and we propose that meristem cells are allocated into floral whorl domains in a sequential manner. WUS activity also appears to be required for the formation of supernumerary organs in the center of agamous, superman or clavata1 flowers, suggesting that the WUS gene acts upstream of the corresponding genes. Our results suggest that the WUS gene is specifically required for central meristem identity of shoot and floral meristems to maintain their structural and functional integrity.

Mice deficient for BMP2 are nonviable and have defects in amnion/chorion and cardiac development

Abstract: To address the function of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP2) in mammalian development, mice with a targeted deletion of the Bmp2 mature region were generated using embryonic stem cell technology. This mutation caused embryonic lethality when homozygous. Mutant embryos failed to close the proamniotic canal, which caused the malformation of the amnion/chorion. BMP2-deficient embryos also exhibited a defect in cardiac development, manifested by the abnormal development of the heart in the exocoelomic cavity. These defects are consistent with the expression of Bmp2 in the extraembryonic mesoderm cells and promyocardium. Thus BMP2 is a critical factor for both extraembryonic and embryonic development.

Germline regulatory element of Oct-4 specific for the totipotent cycle of embryonal cells

Abstract: The totipotent stem cells of the pregastrulation mouse embryo which give rise to all embryonic somatic tissues and germ cells express Oct-4. The expression is downregulated during gastrulation and is thereafter only maintained in the germline lineage. Oct-4/lacZ transgenes were used to determine how this pattern of expression was achieved, and resulted in the identification of two separate regulatory elements. The distal element drives Oct-4 expression in preimplantation embryos, in migratory and postmigratory primordial germ cells but is inactive in cells of the epiblast. In cell lines this element is specifically active in embryonic stem and embryonic germ cells. The proximal element directs the epiblast-specific expression pattern, including downregulation during gastrulation; in cell lines its activity is restricted to epiblast-derived cells. Thus, Oct-4 expression in the germline is regulated separately from epiblast expression. This provides the first marker for the identification of totipotent cells in the embryo, and suggests that expression of Oct-4 in the totipotent cycle is dependent on a set of factors unique to the germline.

De novo DNA cytosine methyltransferase activities in mouse embryonic stem cells.

Abstract: It has been a controversial issue as to how many DNA cytosine methyltransferase mammalian cells have and whether de novo methylation and maintenance methylation activities are encoded by a single gene or two different genes. To address these questions, we have generated a null mutation of the only known mammalian DNA methyltransferase gene through homologous recombination in mouse embryonic stem cells and found that the development of the homozygous embryos is arrested prior to the 8-somite stage. Surprisingly, the null mutant embryonic stem cells are viable and contain low but stable levels of methyl cytosine and methyltransferase activity, suggesting the existence of a second DNA methyltransferase in mammalian cells. Further studies indicate that de novo methylation activity is not impaired by the mutation as integrated provirus DNA in MoMuLV-infected homozygous embryonic stem cells become methylated at a similar rate as in wild-type cells. Differentiation of mutant cells results in further reduction of methyl cytosine levels, consistent with the de novo methylation activity being down regulated in differentiated cells. These results provide the first evidence that an independently encoded DNA methyltransferase is present in mammalian cells which is capable of de novo methylating cellular and viral DNA in vivo.

Transgenic Xenopus embryos from sperm nuclear transplantations reveal FGF signaling requirements during gastrulation

Abstract: We have developed a simple approach for large-scale transgenesis in Xenopus laevis embryos and have used this method to identify in vivo requirements for FGF signaling during gastrulation. Plasmids are introduced into decondensed sperm nuclei in vitro using restriction enzyme-mediated integration (REMI). Transplantation of these nuclei into unfertilized eggs yields hundreds of normal, diploid embryos per day which develop to advanced stages and express integrated plasmids nonmosaically. Transgenic expression of a dominant negative mutant of the FGF receptor (XFD) after the mid-blastula stage uncouples mesoderm induction, which is normal, from maintenance of mesodermal markers, which is lost during gastrulation. By contrast, embryos expressing XFD contain well-patterned nervous systems despite a putative role for FGF in neural induction.

VEGF-C receptor binding and pattern of expression with VEGFR-3 suggests a role in lymphatic vascular development.

Abstract: The vascular endothelial growth factor family has recently been expanded by the isolation of two new VEGF-related factors, VEGF-B and VEGF-C. The physiological functions of these factors are largely unknown. Here we report the cloning and characterization of mouse VEGF-C, which is produced as a disulfide-linked dimer of 415 amino acid residue polypeptides, sharing an 85% identity with the human VEGF-C amino acid sequence. The recombinant mouse VEGF-C protein was secreted from transfected cells as VEGFR-3 (Flt4) binding polypeptides of 30–32x10(3) Mr and 22–23x10(3) Mr which preferentially stimulated the autophosphorylation of VEGFR-3 in comparison with VEGFR-2 (KDR). In in situ hybridization, mouse VEGF-C mRNA expression was detected in mesenchymal cells of postimplantation mouse embryos, particularly in the regions where the lymphatic vessels undergo sprouting from embryonic veins, such as the perimetanephric, axillary and jugular regions. In addition, the developing mesenterium, which is rich in lymphatic vessels, showed strong VEGF-C expression. VEGF-C was also highly expressed in adult mouse lung, heart and kidney, where VEGFR-3 was also prominent. The pattern of expression of VEGF-C in relation to its major receptor VEGFR-3 during the sprouting of the lymphatic endothelium in embryos suggests a paracrine mode of action and that one of the functions of VEGF-C may be in the regulation of angiogenesis of the lymphatic vasculature.

Alpha 3 beta 1 integrin has a crucial role in kidney and lung organogenesis

Abstract: A mutation was targeted to the murine alpha3 integrin gene. Homozygous mutant mice survived to birth, but died during the neonatal period. The mutation caused abnormal kidney and lung development. Mutant kidneys displayed decreased branching of the medullary collecting ducts, although the number of nephrons was not altered. Proximal tubules exhibited two distinct subsets of abnormalities, with the epithelial cells either containing excess lysosomes or becoming microcystic. In addition, glomerular development was markedly affected. In mutant kidneys, the extent of branching of glomerular capillary loops was decreased, with capillary lumina being wider than normal. The glomerular basement membrane was disorganized and glomerular podocytes were unable to form mature foot processes. Branching of the bronchi in lungs of mutant mice was also decreased and the large bronchi extended to the periphery. These results indicate a role for integrin receptors in basement membrane organization and branching morphogenesis.

A male-specific role for SOX9 in vertebrate sex determination

Abstract: Mutation analyses of patients with campomelic dysplasia, a bone dysmorphology and XY sex reversal syndrome, indicate that the SRY-related gene SOX9 is involved in both skeletal development and sex determination. To clarify the role SOX9 plays in vertebrate sex determination, we have investigated its expression during gonad development in mouse and chicken embryos. In the mouse, high levels of Sox9 mRNA were found in male (XY) but not female (XX) genital ridges, and were localised to the sex cords of the developing testis. Purified fetal germ cells lacked Sox9 expression, indicating that Sox9 expression is specific to the Sertoli cell lineage. Sex specificity of SOX9 protein expression was confirmed using a polyclonal antiserum. The timing and cell-type specificity of Sox9 expression suggests that Sox9 may be directly regulated by SRY. Male-specific expression of cSOX9 mRNA during the sex determination period was also observed in chicken genital ridges. The conservation of sexually dimorphic expression in two vertebrate classes which have significant differences in their sex determination mechanisms, points to a fundamental role for SOX9 in testis determination in vertebrates. Sox9 expression was maintained in the mouse testis during fetal and adult life, but no expression was seen at any stage by in situ hybridisation in the developing ovary. Male-specific expression was also observed in the cells surrounding the Mullerian ducts and in the epididymis, and expression in both sexes was detected in the developing collecting ducts of the metanephric kidney. These results suggest that SOX9 may have a wider role in the development of the genitourinary system.

Developmental regulation of zebrafish MyoD in wild-type, no tail and spadetail embryos

Abstract: We describe the isolation of the zebrafish MyoD gene and its expression in wild-type embryos and in two mutants with altered somite development, no tail (ntl) and spadetail (spt). In the wild-type embryo, MyoD expression first occurs in an early phase, extending from mid-gastrula to just prior to somite formation, in which cells directly adjacent to the axial mesoderm express the gene. In subsequent phases, during the anterior-to-posterior wave of somite formation and maturation, expression occurs within particular regions of each somite. In spt embryos, which lack normal paraxial mesoderm due to incorrect cell migration, early MyoD expression is not observed and transcripts are instead first detected in small groups of trunk cells that will develop into aberrant myotomal-like structures. In ntl embryos, which lack notochords and tails, the early phase of MyoD expression is also absent. However, the later phase of expression within the developing somites appears to occur at the normal time in the ntl mutants, indicating that the presomitogenesis and somitogenesis phases of MyoD expression can be uncoupled. In addition, we demonstrate that the entire paraxial mesoderm of wild-type embryos has the potential to express MyoD when Sonic hedgehog is expressed ubiquitously in the embryo, and that this potential is lost in some of the cells of the paraxial mesoderm lineage in no tail and spadetail embryos. We also show that MyoD expression precedes myogenin expression and follows or is coincident with expression of snaill in some regions that express this gene.

Rhombencephalic neural crest segmentation is preserved throughout craniofacial ontogeny

Abstract: To investigate the influence of hindbrain segmentation on craniofacial patterning we have studied the long term fate of neural crest (NC) subpopulations of individual rhombomeres (r), using quail-chick chimeras. Mapping of all skeletal and muscle connective tissues developing from these small regions revealed several novel features of the cranial neural crest. First, the mandibular arch skeleton has a composite origin in which the proximal elements are r1+r2 derived, whereas more distal ones are exclusively midbrain derived. The most proximal region of the lower jaw is derived from second arch (r4) NC. Second, both the lower jaw and tongue skeleton display an organisation which precisely reflects the rostrocaudal order of segmental crest deployment from the embryonic hindbrain. Third, cryptic intraskeletal boundaries, which do not correspond to anatomical landmarks, form sharply defined interfaces between r1+r2, r4 and r6+r7 crest. Cells that survive the early apoptotic elimination of premigratory NC in r3 and r5 are restricted to tiny contributions within the 2nd arch (r4) skeleton. Fourth, a highly constrained pattern of cranial skeletomuscular connectivity was found that precisely respects the positional origin of its constitutive crest: each rhombomeric population remains coherent throughout ontogeny, forming both the connective tissues of specific muscles and their respective attachment sites onto the neuro- and viscerocranium. Finally, focal clusters of crest cells, confined to the attachment sites of branchial muscles, intrude into the otherwise mesodermal cranial base. In the viscerocranium, an equally strict, rhombomere-specific matching of muscle connective tissues and their attachment sites is found for all branchial and tongue (hypoglossal) muscles. This coherence of segmental crest populations explains how cranial skeletomuscular pattern can be implemented and conserved despite evolutionary changes in the shapes of skeletal elements.

Identification of separate slow and fast muscle precursor cells in vivo, prior to somite formation

Abstract: We have examined the development of specific muscle fiber types in zebrafish axial muscle by labeling myogenic precursor cells with vital fluorescent dyes and following their subsequent differentiation and fate. Two populations of muscle precursors, medial and lateral, can be distinguished in the segmental plate by position, morphology and gene expression. The medial cells, known as adaxial cells, are large, cuboidal cells adjacent to the notochord that express myoD. Surprisingly, after somite formation, they migrate radially away from the notochord, becoming a superficial layer of muscle cells. A subset of adaxial cells develop into engrailed-expressing muscle pioneers. Adaxial cells differentiate into slow muscle fibers of the adult fish. We have named the lateral population of cells in the segmental plate, lateral presomitic cells. They are smaller, more irregularly shaped and separated from the notochord by adaxial cells; they do not express myoD until after somite formation. Lateral presomitic cells remain deep in the myotome and they differentiate into fast muscle fibers. Thus, slow and fast muscle fiber types in zebrafish axial muscle arise from distinct populations of cells in the segmental plate that develop in different cellular environments and display distinct behaviors.

Genes controlling and mediating locomotion behavior of the zebrafish embryo and larva

Abstract: Zebrafish embryos and larvae have stage-specific patterns of motility or locomotion. Two embryonic structures accomplish this behavior: the central nervous system (CNS) and skeletal muscles. To identify genes that are functionally involved in mediating and controlling different patterns of embryonic and larval motility, we included a simple touch response test in our zebrafish large-scale genetic screen. In total we identified 166 mutants with specific defects in embryonic motility. These mutants fall into 14 phenotypically distinct groups comprising at least 48 genes. Here we describe the various phenotypic groups including mutants with no or reduced motility, mechanosensory defective mutants, ‘spastic’ mutants, circling mutants and motor circuit defective mutants. In 63 mutants, defining 18 genes, striation of somitic muscles is reduced. Phenotypic analysis provides evidence that these 18 genes have distinct and consecutive functions during somitic muscle development. The genes sloth (slo) and frozen (fro) already act during myoblast differentiation, while 13 genes appear to function later, in the formation of myofibers and the organization of sarcomeres. Mutations in four other genes result in muscle-specific degeneration. 103 mutations, defining at least 30 genes, cause no obvious defects in muscle formation and may instead affect neuronal development. Analysis of the behavioral defects suggests that these genes participate in the diverse locomotion patterns observed, such as touch response, rhythmic tail movements, equilibrium control, or that they simply confer general motility to the animal. In some of these mutants specific defects in the developing nervous system are detected. Mutations in two genes, nevermind (nev) and macho (mao), affect axonal projection in the optic tectum, whereas axon formation and elongation of motorneurons are disrupted by mutations in the diwanka (diw) and the unplugged (unp) genes.

Pax2 contributes to inner ear patterning and optic nerve trajectory

Abstract: During gestation, the paired box-containing gene Pax2 is expressed in the mid-hindbrain area, developing eye and inner ear. We generated Pax2 null mutant mice, which show the requirement of Pax2 for the establishment of axonal pathways along the optic stalks and ventral diencephalon. In mutant brains, the optic tracts remain totally ipsilateral due to agenesis of the optic chiasma. Furthermore, Pax2 mutants show extension of the pigmented retina into the optic stalks and failure of the optic fissure to close resulting in coloboma. In the inner ear, Pax2 mutants show agenesis of the cochlea and the spiral ganglion, i.e., the parts of the organ responsible for auditory function and in whose primordium Pax2 is expressed. Our results identify Pax2 as a major regulator of patterning during organogenesis of the eye and inner ear and indicate its function in morphogenetic events required for closure of the optic fissure and neural tube.

Mutations affecting the formation and function of the cardiovascular system in the zebrafish embryo.

Abstract: As part of a large-scale mutagenesis screen of the zebrafish genome, we have identified 58 mutations that affect the formation and function of the cardiovascular system. The cardiovascular system is particularly amenable for screening in the transparent zebrafish embryo because the heart and blood vessels are prominent and their function easily examined. We have classified the mutations affecting the heart into those that affect primarily either morphogenesis or function. Nine mutations clearly disrupt the formation of the heart. cloche deletes the endocardium. In cloche mutants, the myocardial layer forms in the absence of the endocardium but is dysmorphic and exhibits a weak contractility. Two loci, miles apart and bonnie and clyde, play a critical role in the fusion of the bilateral tubular primordia. Three mutations lead to an abnormally large heart and one to the formation of a diminutive, dysmorphic heart. We have found no mutation that deletes the myocardial cells altogether, but one, pandora, appears to eliminate the ventricle selectively. Seven mutations interfere with vascular integrity, as indicated by hemorrhage at particular sites. In terms of cardiac function, one large group exhibits a weak beat. In this group, five loci affect both chambers and seven a specific chamber (the atrium or ventricle). For example, the weak atrium mutation exhibits an atrium that becomes silent but has a normally beating ventricle. Seven mutations affect the rhythm of the heart causing, for example, a slow rate, a fibrillating pattern or an apparent block to conduction. In several other mutants, regurgitation of blood flow from ventricle to atrium is the most prominent abnormality, due either to the absence of valves or to poor coordination between the chambers with regard to the timing of contraction. The mutations identified in this screen point to discrete and critical steps in the formation and function of the heart and vasculature.

The morphogenesis of the pancreatic mesenchyme is uncoupled from that of the pancreatic epithelium in IPF1/PDX1-deficient mice

Abstract: We have previously shown that mice carrying a null mutation in the homeobox gene ipf1, now renamed to pdx1, selectively lack a pancreas. To elucidate the level at which PDX1 is required during the development of the pancreas, we have in this study analyzed the early stages of pancreas ontogeny in PDX−/− mice. These analyses have revealed that the early inductive events leading to the formation of the pancreatic buds and the appearance of the early insulin and glucagon cells occur in the PDX1-deficient embryos. However, the subsequent morphogenesis of the pancreatic epithelium and the progression of differentiation of the endocrine cells are arrested in the pdx1−/− embryos. In contrast, the pancreatic mesenchyme grows and develops, both morphologically and functionally, independently of the epithelium. We also show that the pancreatic epithelium in the pdx1 mutants is unable to respond to the mesenchymal-derived signal(s) which normally promote pancreatic morphogenesis. Together these data provide evidence that PDX-1 acts cell autonomously and that the lack of a pancreas in the pdx1−/− mice is due to a defect in the pancreatic epithelium.

Widespread programmed cell death in proliferative and postmitotic regions of the fetal cerebral cortex.

Abstract: A key event in the development of the mammalian cerebral cortex is the generation of neuronal populations during embryonic life. Previous studies have revealed many details of cortical neuron development including cell birthdates, migration patterns and lineage relationships. Programmed cell death is a potentially important mechanism that could alter the numbers and types of developing cortical cells during these early embryonic phases. While programmed cell death has been documented in other parts of the embryonic central nervous system, its operation has not been previously reported in the embryonic cortex because of the lack of cell death markers and the difficulty in following the entire population of cortical cells. Here, we have investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of dying cells in the embryonic cortex using an in situ endlabelling technique called 'ISEL+' that identifies fragmented nuclear DNA in dying cells with increased sensitivity. The period encompassing murine cerebral cortical neurogenesis was examined, from embryonic days 10 through 18. Dying cells were rare at embryonic day 10, but by embryonic day 14, 70% of cortical cells were found to be dying. This number declined to 50% by embryonic day 18, and few dying cells were observed in the adult cerebral cortex. Surprisingly, while dying cells were observed throughout the cerebral cortical wall, the majority were found within zones of cell proliferation rather than in regions of postmitotic neurons. These observations suggest that multiple mechanisms may regulate programmed cell death in the developing cortex. Moreover, embryonic cell death could be an important factor enabling the selection of appropriate cortical cells before they complete their differentiation in postnatal life.

Two distinct phases of apoptosis in mammary gland involution: proteinase-independent and -dependent pathways.

Abstract: Postlactational involution of the mammary gland is characterized by two distinct physiological events: apoptosis of the secretory, epithelial cells undergoing programmed cell death, and proteolytic degradation of the mammary gland basement membrane. We examined the spatial and temporal patterns of apoptotic cells in relation to those of proteinases during involution of the BALB/c mouse mammary gland. Apoptosis was almost absent during lactation but became evident at day 2 of involution, when beta-casein gene expression was still high. Apoptotic cells were then seen at least up to day 8 of involution, when beta-casein gene expression was being extinguished. Expression of sulfated glycoprotein-2 (SGP-2), interleukin-1 beta converting enzyme (ICE) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 was upregulated at day 2, when apoptotic cells were seen initially. Expression of the matrix metalloproteinases gelatinase A and stromelysin-1 and the serine proteinase urokinase-type plasminogen activator, which was low during lactation, was strongly upregulated in parallel starting at day 4 after weaning, coinciding with start of the collapse of the lobulo-alveolar structures and the intensive tissue remodeling in involution. The major sites of mRNA synthesis for these proteinases were fibroblast-like cells in the periductal stroma and stromal cells surrounding the collapsed alveoli, suggesting that the degradative phase of involution is due to a specialized mesenchymal-epithelial interaction. To elucidate the functional role of these proteinases during involution, at the onset of weaning we treated mice systemically with the glucocorticoid hydrocortisone, which is known to inhibit mammary gland involution. Although the initial wave of apoptotic cells appeared in the lumina of the gland, the dramatic regression and tissue remodeling usually evident by day 5 was substantially inhibited by systemic treatment with hydrocortisone. mRNA and protein for gelatinase A, stromelysin-1 and uPA were weakly induced, if at all, in hydrocortisone-treated mice. Furthermore, mRNA for membrane-type matrix metalloproteinase decreased after hydrocortisone treatment and paralleled the almost complete inhibition of activation of latent gelatinase A. Concomitantly, the gland filled with an overabundance of milk. Our data support the hypothesis that there are at least two distinct phases of involution: an initial phase, characterized by induction of the apoptosis-associated genes SGP-2 and ICE and apoptosis of fully differentiated mammary epithelial cells without visible degradation of the extracellular matrix, and a second phase, characterized by extracellular matrix remodeling and altered mesenchymal-epithelial interactions, followed by apoptosis of cells that are losing differentiated functions.

Notch4/int-3, a mammary proto-oncogene, is an endothelial cell-specific mammalian Notch gene

Abstract: The int-3 oncogene was identified as a frequent target in Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV)-induced mammary carcinomas and encodes the intracellular domain of a novel mouse Notch gene. To investigate the role of the int-3 proto-oncogene in mouse development and carcinogenesis, we isolated cDNA clones corresponding to the entire coding potential of the int-3 proto-oncogene. We propose to name this gene Notch4 and reserve the int-3 nomenclature for references to the oncogenic form. The deduced amino acid sequence of Notch4 contains conserved motifs found in Notch proteins; however Notch4 has fewer epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like repeats and a shorter intracellular domain than other mouse Notch homologues. Comparison of the coding potential of the int-3 gene to that of Notch4 suggests that loss of the extracellular domain of Notch4 leads to constitutive activation of this murine Notch protein. In situ hybridization revealed that Notch4 transcripts are primarily restricted to endothelial cells in embryonic and adult life. Truncated Notch4 transcripts were detected in post-meiotic male germ cells. The distinct Notch4 protein features and its restricted expression pattern suggests a specific role for Notch4 during development of vertebrate endothelium.

Mutations affecting somite formation and patterning in the zebrafish, Danio rerio

Abstract: Somitogenesis is the basis of segmentation of the mesoderm in the trunk and tail of vertebrate embryos. Two groups of mutants with defects in this patterning process have been isolated in our screen for zygotic mutations affecting the embryonic development of the zebrafish (Danio rerio). In mutants of the first group, boundaries between individual somites are invisible early on, although the paraxial mesoderm is present. Later, irregular boundaries between somites are present. Mutations in fused somites (fss) and beamter (bea) affect all somites, whereas mutations in deadly seven (des), after eight (aei) and white tail (wit) only affect the more posterior somites. Mutants of all genes but wit are homozygous viable and fertile. Skeletal stainings and the expression pattern of myoD and snail1 suggest that anteroposterior patterning within individual somites is abnormal. In the second group of mutants, formation of the horizontal myoseptum, which separates the dorsal and ventral part of the myotome, is reduced. Six genes have been defined in this group (you-type genes). you-too mutants show the most severe phenotype; in these the adaxial cells, muscle pioneers and the primary motoneurons are affected, in addition to the horizontal myoseptum. The horizontal myoseptum is also missing in mutants that lack a notochord. The similarity of the somite phenotype in mutants lacking the notochord and in the you-type mutants suggests that the genes mutated in these two groups are involved in a signaling pathway from the notochord, important for patterning of the somites.

A targeted mouse Otx2 mutation leads to severe defects in gastrulation and formation of axial mesoderm and to deletion of rostral brain

Abstract: Mouse Otx2 is a bicoid-class homeobox gene, related to the Drosophila orthodenticle (otd) gene. Expression of this gene is initially widespread in the epiblast at embryonic day 5.5 but becomes progressively restricted to the anterior end of the embryo at the headfold stage. In flies, loss of function mutations in otd result in deletion of pre-antennal and antennal segments; which leads to the absence of head structures derived from these segments. To study the function of Otx2 in mice, we have generated a homeobox deletion mutation in this gene. Mice homozygous for this mutation show severe defects in gastrulation and in formation of axial mesoderm and loss of anterior neural tissues. These results demonstrate that Otx2 is required for proper development of the epiblast and patterning of the anterior brain in mice, and supports the idea of evolutionary conservation of the function of Otd/Otx genes in head development in flies and mice.

Analysis of Hox gene expression in the chick limb bud

Abstract: The vertebrate Hox genes have been shown to be important for patterning the primary and secondary axes of the developing vertebrate embryo. The function of these genes along the primary axis of the embryo has been generally interpreted in the context of positional specification and homeotic transformation of axial structures. The way in which these genes are expressed and function during the development of the secondary axes, particularly the limb, is less clear. In order to provide a reference for understanding the role of the Hox genes in limb patterning, we isolated clones of 23 Hox genes expressed during limb development, characterized their expression patterns and analyzed their regulation by the signalling centers which pattern the limb. The expression patterns of the Abd-B-related Hoxa and Hoxd genes have previously been partially characterized; however, our study reveals that these genes are expressed in patterns more dynamic and complex than generally appreciated, only transiently approximating simple, concentric, nested domains. Detailed analysis of these patterns suggests that the expression of each of the Hoxa and Hoxd genes is regulated in up to three independent phases. Each of these phases appears to be associated with the specification and patterning of one of the proximodistal segments of the limb (upper arm, lower arm and hand). Interestingly, in the last of these phases, the expression of the Hoxd genes violates the general rule of spatial and temporal colinearity of Hox gene expression with gene order along the chromosome. In contrast to the Abd-B-related Hoxa and Hoxd genes, which are expressed in both the fore and hind limbs, different sets of Hoxc genes are expressed in the two limbs. There is a correlation between the relative position of these genes along the chromosome and the axial level of the limb bud in which they are expressed. The more 3' genes are expressed in the fore limb bud while the 5' genes are expressed in the hind limb bud; intermediate genes are transcribed in both limbs. However, there is no clear correlation between the relative position of the genes along the chromosome and their expression domains within the limb. With the exception of Hoxc-11, which is transcribed in a posterior portion of the hind limb, Hoxc gene expression is restricted to the anterior/proximal portion of the limb bud. Importantly, comparison of the distributions of Hoxc-6 RNA and protein products reveals posttranscriptional regulation of this gene, suggesting that caution must be exercised in interpreting the functional significance of the RNA distribution of any of the vertebrate Hox genes. To understand the genesis of the complex patterns of Hox gene expression in the limb bud, we examined the propagation of Hox gene expression relative to cell proliferation. We find that shifts in Hox gene expression cannot be attributed to passive expansion due to cell proliferation. Rather, phase-specific Hox gene expression patterns appear to result from a context-dependent response of the limb mesoderm to Sonic hedgehog. Sonic hedgehog (the patterning signal from the Zone of Polarizing Activity) is known to be able to activate Hoxd gene expression in the limb. Although we find that Sonic hedgehog is capable of initiating and polarizing Hoxd gene expression during both of the latter two phases of Hox gene expression, the specific patterns induced are not determined by the signal, but depend upon the temporal context of the mesoderm receiving the signal. Misexpression of Sonic hedgehog also reveals that Hoxb-9, which is normally excluded from the posterior mesenchyme of the leg, is negatively regulated by Sonic hedgehog and that Hoxc-11, which is expressed in the posterior portion of the leg, is not affected by Sonic hedgehog and hence is not required to pattern the skeletal elements of the lower leg.

A comparison of the properties of Sox-3 with Sry and two related genes, Sox-1 and Sox-2

Abstract: The Sox gene family consists of a large number of embryonically expressed genes related via the possession of a 79-amino-acid DNA-binding domain known as the HMG box Partial clones for the first three Sox genes (al-a3) were isolated by homology to the HMG box of the testis-determining gene Sry and are now termed Sox-1, Sox-2 and Sox-3, Sox-3 is highly conserved amongst mammalian species and is located on the X chromosome This has led to the proposal that Sry evolved from Sox-3 We present the cloning and sequencing of Sox-1, Sox-2 and Sox-3 from the mouse and show that Sox-3 is most closely relate to Sry We also confirm that mouse Sox-3 is located on the X chromosome between Hprt and Dmd Analysis of the distribution of Sox-3 RNA shows that its main site of expression is in the developing central nervous system, suggesting a role for Sox-3 in neural development Moreover, we demonstrate that Sox-3, as well as Sox-1 and Sox-2, are expressed in the urogenital ridge and that their protein products are able to bind the same DNA sequence motif as Sry in vitro, but with different affinities These observations prompt discussion of an evolutionary link between the genes and support the model that Sry has evolved from Sox-3 However our findings imply that if this is true, then Sry has undergone concomitant changes resulting in loss of CNS expression and altered DNA-binding properties

Evidence from normal expression and targeted misexpression that bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp-4) plays a role in mouse embryonic lung morphogenesis.

Abstract: Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions are critical for the branching and differentiation of the lung, but the mechanisms involved are still unclear. To investigate this problem in mouse embryonic lung, we have studied the temporal and spatial expression of genes implicated in the morphogenesis of other organs. At 11.5 days p.c., hepatocyte nuclear factor-3beta (Hnf-3beta) is expressed uniformly throughout the epithelium, while Wnt-2 expression is confined to the distal mesenchyme. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) transcripts are found throughout the epithelium, with high levels in the distal tips of the terminal buds, while bone morphogenetic protein-4 (Bmp-4) transcripts are localized at high levels in the distal tips of the epithelium, with lower levels in the adjacent mesenchyme. Epithelial expression is also seen for Bmp-7, but transcripts are less dramatically upregulated at the distal tips. The Type I Bone morphogenetic protein receptor gene (Bmpr/Tfr-11/Brk-1) is expressed at low levels in the epithelium and in the distal mesenchyme. To investigate the role of Bmp-4 in lung development, we have misexpressed the gene throughout the distal epithelium of transgenic lungs using a surfactant protein C enhancer/promoter. From 15.5 days p.c., transgenic lungs are smaller than normal, with grossly distended terminal buds and, at birth, contain large air-filled sacs which do not support normal lung function. Labeling with BrdU reveals an inhibition of epithelia] proliferation in 15.5 days p.c. transgenic lungs. A small but significant stimulation of proliferation of mesenchymal cells is also observed, but this is accompanied by an increase in cell death. In situ hybridization with riboprobes for the proximal airway marker, CC10, and the distal airway marker, SP-C, shows normal differentiation of bronchiolar Clara cells but a reduction in the number of differentiated Type II cells in transgenic lungs. A model is proposed for the role of BMP4 and other signalling molecules in embryonic lung morphogenesis.

Surface tensions of embryonic tissues predict their mutual envelopment behavior.

Abstract: During embryonic development, certain tissues stream to their destinations by liquidlike spreading movements. According to the 'differential adhesion hypothesis', these movements are guided by cell-adhesion-generated tissue surface tensions (sigmas), operating in the same manner as surface tensions do in the mutual spreading behavior of immiscible liquids, among which the liquid of lower surface tension is always the one that spreads over its partner. In order to conduct a direct physical test of the 'differential adhesion hypothesis', we have measured the sigmas of aggregates of five chick embryonic tissues, using a parallel plate compression apparatus specifically designed for this purpose, and compared the measured values with these tissues' mutual spreading behaviors. We show that aggregates of each of these tissues behave for a time as elasticoviscous liquids with characteristic surface tension values. Chick embryonic limb bud mesoderm (sigma = 20.1 dyne/cm) is enveloped by pigmented epithelium (sigma = 12.6 dyne/cm) which, in turn, is enveloped by heart (sigma = 8.5 dyne/cm) which, in turn, is enveloped by liver (sigma = 4.6 dyne/cm) which, in turn, is enveloped by neural retina (sigma = 1.6 dyne/cm). Thus, as predicted, the tissues' surface tension values fall in the precise sequence required to account for their mutual envelopment behavior.

Mechanisms of reduced fertility in Hoxa-10 mutant mice: uterine homeosis and loss of maternal Hoxa-10 expression

Abstract: The establishment of a receptive uterine environment is critical for embryonic survival and implantation. One gene that is expressed in the uterus during the peri-implantation period in mice and is required for female fertility is the homeobox gene Hoxa-10. Here we characterize the peri-implantation defects in Hoxa-10 mutant females and investigate functions of Hoxa-10 in the uterine anlage during morphogenesis and in the adult uterus during pregnancy. Examination of pregnancy in Hoxa-10 mutant females has revealed failure of implantation as well as resorption of embryos in the early postimplantation period. Morphologic analysis of the mutant uterus has demonstrated homeotic transformation of the proximal 25% into oviduct. Histology and molecular markers confirm this anterior transformation. Furthermore, in situ hybridization shows that this region coincides with the anterior limit of embryonic Hoxa-10 expression in the urogenital ducts and a parallel transformation is observed in Hoxa-10 mutant males at the junction of the epididymis and ductus deferens. Female fertility could be compromised by either the homeotic transformation or the absence of Hoxa-10 function in the adult during pregnancy. To distinguish between these two potential mechanisms of infertility, wildtype blastocysts were transferred into mutant uteri distal to the transformed region on day 2.5 of pseudopregnancy. This procedure did not rescue the phenotype, suggesting that adult uterine expression of Hoxa-10 is required during pregnancy. Moreover, when implantation was experimentally delayed, homozygous uteri were able to support survival of blastocysts comparable to wild-type controls, indicating that the requirement for Hoxa-10 is intrinsic to implantation. While expression of LIF and HB-EGF appears unaffected in the mutant uteri, a decrease is observed in the intensity and number of blue dye reactions, an indicator of increased vascular permeability in response to implantation. In addition, mutant uteri exhibited decreased decidualization in response to artificial stimuli. These results show that Hoxa-10 is required during morphogenesis for proper patterning of the reproductive tract and in the adult uterus for peri-implantation events.

The homeobox gene GLABRA2 is required for position-dependent cell differentiation in the root epidermis of Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract: The role of the Arabidopsis homeobox gene, GLABRA 2 (GL2), in the development of the root epidermis has been investigated. The wild-type epidermis is composed of two cell types, root-hair cells and hairless cells, which are located at distinct positions within the root, implying that positional cues control cell-type differentiation. During the development of the root epidermis, the differentiating root-hair cells (trichoblasts) and the differentiating hairless cells (atrichoblasts) can be distinguished by their cytoplasmic density, vacuole formation, and extent of elongation. We have determined that mutations in the GL2 gene specifically alter the differentiation of the hairless epidermal cells, causing them to produce root hairs, which indicates that GL2 affects epidermal cell identity. Detailed analyses of these differentiating cells showed that, despite forming root hairs, they are similar to atrichoblasts of the wild type in their cytoplasmic characteristics, timing of vacuolation, and extent of cell elongation. The results of in situ nucleic acid hybridization and GUS reporter gene fusion studies show that the GL2 gene is preferentially expressed in the differentiating hairless cells of the wild type, during a period in which epidermal cell identity is believed to be established. These results indicate that the GL2 homeodomain protein normally regulates a subset of the processes that occur during the differentiation of hairless epidermal cells of the Arabidopsis root. Specifically, GL2 appears to act in a cell-position-dependent manner to suppress hair formation in differentiating hairless cells.

Mutations affecting the cardiovascular system and other internal organs in zebrafish

Abstract: In a screen for early developmental mutants of the zebrafish, we have identified mutations specifically affecting the internal organs. We identified 53 mutations affecting the cardiovascular system. Nine of them affect specific landmarks of heart morphogenesis. Mutations in four genes cause a failure in the fusion of the bilateral heart primordia, resulting in cardia bifida. In lonely atrium, no heart venticle is visible and the atrium is directly fused to the outflow tract. In the overlooped mutant, the relative position of the two heart chambers is distorted. The heart is enormously enlarged in the santa mutant. In two mutants, scotch tape and superglue, the cardiac jelly between the two layers of the heart is significantly reduced. We also identified a number of mutations affecting the function of the heart. The mutations affecting heart function can be subdivided into two groups, one affecting heart contraction and another affecting the rhythm of the heart beat. Among the contractility group of mutants are 5 with no heart beat at all and 15 with a reduced heart beat of one or both chambers. 6 mutations are in the rhythmicity group and specifically affect the beating pattern of the heart. Mutations in two genes, bypass and kurzschluss, cause specific defects in the circulatory system. In addition to the heart mutants, we identified 23 mutations affecting the integrity of the liver, the intestine or the kidney. In this report, we demonstrate that it is feasible to screen for genes specific for the patterning or function of certain internal organs in the zebrafish. The mutations presented here could serve as an entry point to the establishment of a genetic hierarchy underlying organogenesis.