The Pax4 gene is essential for differentiation of insulin-producing beta cells in the mammalian pancreas
Article Abstract:
The early expression of the Pax4 gene, a member of the murine family of Pax genes, in a subset of endocrine progenitors is necessary for the differentiation of the beta and delta cell lineages. The gene is expressed in the early pancreas, but is later limited to beta cells. In the absence of Pax4, the presence of glucagon cells in considerably higher numbers indicates that in Pax4(super -1-) pancreas, a substantial amount of early endocrine precursors have acquired an alpha-cell phenotype. However, it may be possible that the absence of beta and delta cells leads to an increased proliferation of alpha-cell precursors.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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Pax6 is required for differentiation of glucagon-producing alpha-cells in mouse pancreas
Article Abstract:
It is possible to demonstrate that the paired-box gene Pax6 is expressed during the early stages of pancreatic development in mice, as well as in mature endocrine cells. There are no glucagon-producing cells in the pancreas of Pax6 homozygous mutant mice, indicating that Pax6 is vital to the differentiation of alpha-cells. It can be concluded that Pax4 and Pax6 determine the cell fate of endocrine tissue during development. It is believed that all four endocrine cell types are derived from a common pluripotent precursor which originates from the endoderm.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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Ambra1 regulates autophagy and development of the nervous system
Article Abstract:
The study of autophagy processes in neurodegradation and cancer identified a new essential element supporting the complex interplay between autophagy, cell growth and death required for neural development in mammals.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2007
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