Calcium turns sinister in left-right asymmetry.

Journal article

A major challenge in deciphering the development of left-right asymmetry in vertebrates is uncovering how subtle early differences between the left and right sides are translated into robust differences in gene expression. Recently, Raya and colleagues suggested that asymmetric localization of extracellular calcium ions at the node could differentially modulate Notch signalling, resulting in asymmetric expression of the signalling molecule Nodal on the left side of the node. In this article, I examine the implications of this finding and explore their relevance to the evolution of asymmetry in vertebrates and invertebrates.

Authors: Shimeld, S

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: Trends in genetics : TIG
• Volume: 20
• Issue: 7
• Pages: 277-280
• Publication date: 2004-07-01
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2004.04.010
• ISSN: 0168-9525
• Language: English
• Keywords: Functional Laterality; Transforming Growth Factor beta; Left-Right Determination Factors; Nodal Protein; Receptors, Notch; Body Patterning; Calcium; Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental; Membrane Proteins; Animals; Signal Transduction