Switching repulsion to attraction: changing responses to slit during transition in mesoderm migration
Science, 2001•science.org
Slit is secreted by cells at the midline of the central nervous system, where it binds to
Roundabout (Robo) receptors and functions as a potent repellent. We found that migrating
mesodermal cells in vivo respond to Slit as both an attractant and a repellent and that Robo
receptors are required for both functions. Mesoderm cells expressing Robo receptors initially
migrate away from Slit at the midline. A few hours after migration, these same cells change
their behavior and require Robo to extend toward Slit-expressing muscle attachment sites …
Roundabout (Robo) receptors and functions as a potent repellent. We found that migrating
mesodermal cells in vivo respond to Slit as both an attractant and a repellent and that Robo
receptors are required for both functions. Mesoderm cells expressing Robo receptors initially
migrate away from Slit at the midline. A few hours after migration, these same cells change
their behavior and require Robo to extend toward Slit-expressing muscle attachment sites …
Slit is secreted by cells at the midline of the central nervous system, where it binds to Roundabout (Robo) receptors and functions as a potent repellent. We found that migrating mesodermal cells in vivo respond to Slit as both an attractant and a repellent and that Robo receptors are required for both functions. Mesoderm cells expressing Robo receptors initially migrate away from Slit at the midline. A few hours after migration, these same cells change their behavior and require Robo to extend toward Slit-expressing muscle attachment sites. Thus, Slit functions as a chemoattractant to provide specificity for muscle patterning.
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