Versican controlled by Lmx1b regulates hyaluronate density and hydration for semicircular canal morphogenesis.

ABSTRACT: During inner ear semicircular canal morphogenesis in zebrafish, patterned canal-genesis zones express genes for extracellular matrix component synthesis. These include hyaluronan and the hyaluronan-binding chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan Versican, which are abundant in the matrices of many developing organs. Charged hyaluronate polymers play a key role in canal morphogenesis through osmotic swelling. However, the developmental factor(s) that control the synthesis of the matrix components and regulation of hyaluronate density and swelling are unknown. Here, we identify the transcription factor, Lmx1b, as a positive transcriptional regulator of hyaluronan, Versican, and chondroitin synthesis genes crucial for canal morphogenesis. We show that Versican regulates hyaluronan density through it

SUBMITTER: Mori Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11100707 | biostudies-literature | 2024 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature