Fgf10

Definition

fgf10, or fibroblast growth factor 10, is a protein that plays a critical role in limb development and patterning, particularly in the formation of the limbs during embryonic development. It is involved in signaling pathways that promote the growth and differentiation of limb mesoderm, influencing both limb bud formation and the establishment of limb identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. fgf10 is essential for initiating limb bud formation and is one of the first signals that triggers limb outgrowth from the body wall.
2. The expression of fgf10 is regulated by various transcription factors and interacts with other growth factors, such as FGF8, to coordinate proper limb development.
3. fgf10 acts primarily in the mesodermal tissues beneath the AER, influencing both cell proliferation and differentiation in the developing limb.
4. Mutations or disruptions in fgf10 can lead to congenital limb malformations, underscoring its importance in normal limb development.
5. fgf10's role extends beyond just limb development; it has been implicated in processes like lung and tooth development due to its general function as a growth factor.

Review Questions

• How does fgf10 influence the early stages of limb development?
  • fgf10 is crucial for initiating the process of limb bud formation. It signals mesodermal cells to proliferate and differentiate, allowing for the outgrowth of the limb bud from the body wall. By acting early in development, fgf10 sets off a cascade of events that lead to the proper formation of limbs.
• Discuss the interaction between fgf10 and other signaling molecules during limb patterning.
  • fgf10 works closely with other signaling molecules such as FGF8 and Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) to ensure accurate limb patterning. FGF8, produced by the AER, helps maintain fgf10 expression in underlying mesoderm. This interaction between fgf10 and these signaling pathways establishes critical dimensions and structures within the developing limb, including axes of symmetry.
• Evaluate the impact of fgf10 mutations on limb morphogenesis and potential implications for regenerative medicine.
  • Mutations in fgf10 can lead to severe congenital malformations such as absent or malformed limbs, demonstrating its pivotal role in morphogenesis. Understanding these mutations provides insights into developmental pathways and may inform strategies for regenerative medicine, especially in tissue engineering where manipulating similar growth factors could enhance limb regeneration or repair after injury.

Related terms

Limb Bud: An early structure in limb development that forms as an outgrowth of mesoderm and ectoderm, giving rise to the limbs.

ZPA (Zone of Polarizing Activity): A region in the developing limb bud that produces signaling molecules, including Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), which help determine the anterior-posterior axis of the limb.

AER (Apical Ectodermal Ridge): A structure at the distal tip of the limb bud that plays a key role in limb outgrowth and patterning through its production of signaling factors.