Cihox5, a new Ciona intestinalis Hox-related gene, is involved in regionalization of the spinal cord

Michela Gionti, Filomena Ristoratore, Anna Di Gregorio, Francesco Aniello, Margherita Branno, Roberto Di Lauro

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In this paper we report the cloning, sequence and expression analysis of a new Ciona intestinalis hox gene. On the basis of sequence comparison with mammalian and Amphioxus homologues, we called this gene Cihox5. Northern blot analysis reveals a single transcript of about 1.3 kb in length, that is present from neurula until larva stage. Whole-mount in situ hybridization shows restricted expression of this gene in putative blood cells precursors and in a regional domain of the spinal chord. Expression in the spinal cord is attributed to ependymal cells. This result implies a role for this gene in primitive regionalization of spinal cord along the anteroposterior axis in the absence of neuronal bodies.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)515-523
Number of pages9
JournalDevelopment Genes and Evolution
Volume207
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - 1998

Keywords

  • Ascidians
  • CNS regionalization
  • Hox
  • Neural tube

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Genetics
  • Developmental Biology

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