Identification and Characterization of Static Craniofacial Defects in Pre-Metamorphic Xenopus laevis Tadpoles.

ABSTRACT: Craniofacial development is a complex, highly conserved process involving multiple tissue types and molecular pathways, with perturbations resulting in congenital defects that often require invasive surgical interventions to correct. Remarkably, some species, such as Xenopus laevis, can correct some craniofacial abnormalities during pre-metamorphic stages through thyroid hormone-independent mechanisms. However, the full scope of factors mediating remodeling initiation and coordination remain unclear. This study explores the differential remodeling responses of craniofacial defects by comparing the effects of two pharmacological agents, thioridazine-hydrochloride (thio) and ivermectin (IVM), on craniofacial morphology in X. laevis. Thio-exposure reliably induces a craniofacial defect that c

SUBMITTER: Jones E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12371963 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature