Repressor element 1 silencing transcription factor (REST) controls radial migration and temporal neuronal specification during neocortical development.

ABSTRACT: Neurogenesis requires mechanisms that coordinate early cell-fate decisions, migration, and terminal differentiation. Here, we show that the transcriptional repressor, repressor element 1 silencing transcription factor (REST), regulates radial migration and the timing of neural progenitor differentiation during neocortical development, and that the regulation is contingent upon differential REST levels. Specifically, a sustained presence of REST blocks migration and greatly delays--but does not prevent--neuronal differentiation, resulting in a subcortical band heterotopia-like phenotype, reminiscent of loss of doublecortin. We further show that doublecortin is a direct gene target of REST, and that its overexpression rescues, at least in part, the aberrant phenotype caused by persistent pre

SUBMITTER: Mandel G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3189062 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature