Somitogenesis: breaking new boundaries.
Segmentation is a fundamental process in vertebrate embryogenesis, and one of the earliest manifestations of segmental patterning is the generation of transient, serially repeated blocks of mesodermal cells known as somites. Disruption of the normal segmentation process in humans leads to vertebral abnormalities such as spondylocostal dysostosis. In this minireview, we discuss recent advances in the dynamic molecular and cellular mechanisms governing segmentation.
Iulianella
Angelo
A
Stowers Institute for Medical Research, 1000 East 50th Street, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA.
Melton
Kristin R
KR
Trainor
Paul A
PA
D000818:Animals; D002970:Cleavage Stage, Ovum / Q000378:metabolism*; D004622:Embryo, Mammalian / Q000196:embryology / Q000378:metabolism; D004625:Embryo, Nonmammalian / Q000196:embryology / Q000378:metabolism; D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D019170:Somites / Q000378:metabolism*