What question did this study set out to answer?

To determine the cellular mechanisms governing polarizing region mesenchyme signaling during limb bud patterning, focusing on how FGF4 influences gap junction expression and functional coupling.

September 8, 1997The Journal of Cell BiologyOpen Access

Fibroblast Growth Factor 4 Directs Gap Junction Expression in the Mesenchyme of the Vertebrate Limb Bud

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Authors

HMHelen P. MakarenkovaScripps Research Institute DBDavid L. BeckerUniversity of Hohenheim CTCheryll TickleUniversity of Bath

Discussion

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Implication

Experimental study demonstrates that FGF4 enhances gap junction density and functional coupling in posterior limb mesenchyme, indicating that direct communication regulates pattern signaling.

Key Points

To determine the cellular mechanisms governing polarizing region mesenchyme signaling during limb bud patterning, focusing on how FGF4 influences gap junction expression and functional coupling.
Examined connexin 43 (Cx43) and Cx32 gap junction densities across intact vertebrate limb buds before and after removal of the apical ectodermal ridge (AER).
Cultured isolated posterior, anterior, and condensing limb mesenchyme cells with or without FGF4 to assess gap junction density, functional coupling, and polarizing activity retention.
Cx43 and Cx32 gap junctions showed higher density at the distal posterior tip than in distal anterior or proximal mesenchyme, a distribution gradient that disappeared upon AER excision.
FGF4 treatment doubled gap junction density and substantially increased functional coupling in cultured posterior mesenchyme, with no effect observed in anterior or condensing mesenchyme.
Posterior mesenchyme cells maintained in FGF4 sustained in vivo levels of polarizing activity, whereas cells deprived of FGF4 displayed reduced polarizing activity and altered signaling mechanics.

Cite This Study

Makarenkova et al. (1997) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a7b23938d250a4360f45215 https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.138.5.1125

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Implication

Experimental study demonstrates that FGF4 enhances gap junction density and functional coupling in posterior limb mesenchyme, indicating that direct communication regulates pattern signaling.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 4 Directs Gap Junction Expression in the Mesenchyme of the Vertebrate Limb Bud

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

Fibroblast Growth Factor 4 Directs Gap Junction Expression in the Mesenchyme of the Vertebrate Limb Bud

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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