RUNX2 repeat variation does not drive craniofacial diversity in marsupials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) is a transcription factor essential for skeletal development. Variation within the RUNX2 polyglutamine / polyalanine (QA) repeat is correlated with facial length within orders of placental mammals and is suggested to be a major driver of craniofacial diversity. However, it is not known if this correlation exists outside of the placental mammals.

Results

Here we examined the correlation between the RUNX2 QA repeat ratio and facial length in the naturally evolving sister group to the placental mammals, the marsupials. Marsupials have a diverse range of facial lengths similar to that seen in placental mammals. Despite their diversity there was almost no variation seen in the RUNX2 QA repeat across individuals spanning the e

SUBMITTER: Newton AH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5418715 | biostudies-literature | 2017 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature