Video depicts gene expression clusters during limb development through spatial transcriptomic profiles and in situ staining of the tissue. (VIDEO)
Caption
This video shows the dynamic gene expression patterns of IRX1, SOX9 and MSX1, critical genes involved in limb formation. Their distinct distribution ensures the ‘chiselling’ process takes place. IRX1, crucial for digit formation, and SOX9, essential for skeletal development, converge into five distinct lengths within the developing limb, while MSX1, associated with undifferentiated cells, occupies the interdigital spaces between these clusters. At approximately week seven of development, molecules responsible for interdigital cell death are activated, leading to the elimination of cells in the intervening spaces. This orchestrated cell death finally unveils the well-defined shapes of fingers or toes.
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-00000-0.
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