Ebf gene function is required for coupling neuronal differentiation and cell cycle exit.

Helix-loop-helix transcription factors of the Ebf/Olf1 family have previously been implicated in the control of neurogenesis in the central nervous system in both Xenopus laevis and the mouse, but their precise roles have remained unclear. We have characterised two family members in the chick, and have performed a functional analysis by gain- and loss-of-function experiments. This study revealed several specific roles for Ebf genes in the spinal cord and hindbrain regions of higher vertebrates, and enabled their precise positioning along the neurogenic cascade.

Novel activities of Mafb underlie its dual role in hindbrain segmentation and regional specification.

The bZip transcription factor Mafb is expressed in two segments of the developing vertebrate hindbrain: the rhombomeres 5 and 6. Loss of Mafb expression in the mouse mutant kreisler leads to elimination of r5 and to alterations of r6 regional identity. Here, we further investigated the role of Mafb in hindbrain patterning using gain-of-function experiments in the chick embryo.