Foxc1 and Foxc2 function in osteochondral progenitors for the progression through chondrocyte hypertrophy and mineralization of the primary ossification center.

ABSTRACT: The forkhead box transcription factor genes Foxc1 and Foxc2 are expressed in the condensing mesenchyme of the developing skeleton prior to the onset of chondrocyte differentiation. To determine the roles of these transcription factors in limb development we deleted both Foxc1 and Foxc2 in lateral plate mesoderm using the Prx1-cre mouse line. Resulting compound homozygous mice died shortly after birth with exencephaly, and malformations to this sternum and limb skeleton. Notably distal limb structures were preferentially affected, with the autopods displaying reduced or absent mineralization. The radius and tibia bowed and the ulna and fibula were reduced to an unmineralized rudimentary structure. Molecular analysis revealed reduced expression of Ihh leading to r

SUBMITTER: Almubarak A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10168324 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature