Work

A spatiotemporal evaluation of the contribution of the dorsal mesenchymal protrusion to cardiac development

Year: 2007

Type: article

Abstract: The mesenchymal tissues involved in cardiac septation are derived from different sources. In addition to endocardial-derived mesenchyme, the heart also receives contributions from the neural crest, the proepicardium, and the dorsal mesenchymal protrusion (DMP). Whereas the contributions of the neural crest and proepicardium have been thoroughly studied, the DMP has received little attention. Here, we present the results of a comprehensive spatiotemporal study of the DMP in cardiac development. Using the Tie2-Cre mouse, immunohistochemistry, and AMIRA reconstructions, we show that the DMP, in combination with the mesenchymal cap on the primary atrial septum, fuse with the major atrioventricular cushions to close the primary atrial foramen and to form the atrioventricular mesenchymal complex. In this complex, the DMP constitutes a discrete prominent mesenchymal component, wedged in between the major cushions. This new model for atrioventricular septation may provide novel insights into understanding the etiology of congenital cardiac malformations.

Source: Developmental Dynamics

DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21074

Authors: Brian S. Snarr, Elaine E. Wirrig, Aimee L. Phelps, Thomas C. Trusk, Andy Wessels

Institution: Medical University of South Carolina

Language: English

Topic: Congenital heart defects research

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze