Precise registration of gene expression boundaries by a repressive morphogen in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Morphogen gradients are thought to create concentration thresholds that differentially position the expression boundaries of multiple target genes. Despite intensive study, it is still unclear how the concentration profiles within gradients are spatially related to the critical patterning thresholds they generate.

Results

Here we use a combination of quantitative measurements and ectopic-misexpression experiments to examine the transcriptional-repression activities of the Hunchback (Hb) protein gradient in Drosophila embryos. Our results define five expression boundaries that are set primarily by differences in Hb concentration and two boundaries that are set by combinatorial mechanisms involving Hb and at least one other repressor.

Conclusions

Hb functions

SUBMITTER: Yu D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2481289 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature