Spred2 expression during mouse development.

SPREDs (Sprouty-related proteins with Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology-1 domain) are known membrane-associated modulators of receptor tyrosine kinases by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Although Spred2(-/-) mice exhibit dwarfism and increase of early haematopoiesis, the precise expression and role of SPRED2 in mouse development remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate a detailed Spred2 expression pattern during mouse development using X-Gal stainings from samples of a gene-trapped Spred2 mouse line.

The serine protease HtrA1 specifically interacts and degrades the tuberous sclerosis complex 2 protein.

Hamartin and tuberin are products of the tumor suppressor genes TSC1 and TSC2, respectively. Mutations affecting either gene result in the tuberous sclerosis syndrome, a neurologic genetic disorder characterized by the formation of multiple benign tumors or hamartomas. In this study, we report the identification of TSC2, but not TSC1, as a substrate of HtrA1, a member of the human HtrA family proteins of serine proteases.

Axial patterning in snakes and caecilians: evidence for an alternative interpretation of the Hox code.

It is generally assumed that the characteristic deregionalized body plan of species with a snake-like morphology evolved through a corresponding homogenization of Hox gene expression domains along the primary axis. Here, we examine the expression of Hox genes in snake embryos and show that a collinear pattern of Hox expression is retained within the paraxial mesoderm of the trunk. Genes expressed at the anterior and most posterior, regionalized, parts of the skeleton correspond to the expected anatomical boundaries.

The serine protease HtrA1 is upregulated in the human placenta during pregnancy.

The placenta has a dynamic and continuous capacity for self-renewal. The molecular mechanisms responsible for controlling trophoblast proliferation are still unclear. It is generally accepted that the simultaneous activity of proteins involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix degradation plays an important role in correct placental development.