Bmp4 mediates apoptotic cell death in the developing chick eye.

摘要: The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) expression in vertebrates suggests a reiterative function of these molecules during eye development. However, genetic analysis mice has provided only partial information. Using the chick embryo as model system, we have analyzed possible additional functions BMP4 optic cup formation. Here describe pattern Bmp4 and Bmp7 show that, contrast to mouse, prospective lens placode ectoderm expresses high levels but no . After vesicle invagination, is expressed dorsal neural retina, where BmprIA , BmprII Smad1 components signal transduction pathway, are also expressed. In toto terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated UTP nick end-labeling shows that site spatiotemporally restricted apoptosis, which parallels not Msx1 Msx2 genes implicated BMP4-mediated apoptosis. use cultures well ovo local addition its antagonist Noggin proves activity responsible for programmed cell death cup. addition, able reduce rate proliferation part whereas increases number BrdU-positive cells retina cultures. These results provide evidence contributes development by promoting death.