Deschamps Group

Genetics of morphogenesis during axial elongation in the mouse embryo

We study the role of transcription factors and signaling molecules during morphogenesis in the growing embryo. We focus on the evolutionary conserved Hox and ParaHox gene families, known for their role in the acquisition of antero-posterior identity of axial tissues. We have shown that Hox genes are also involved in embryonic axial growth. We aim at elucidating the genetic network underlying Cdx and Hox action in morphogenesis, using genetic rescue of loss and gain of function phenotypes. We also want to understand the way the cell progenitors of trunk tissues in early embryos depend on transcription factors and signaling pathways.  

About the research

Key publications

Young, T., Rowland, J., van de Ven, C., Bialecka, M., Novoa, A., Carapuco, M., van Nes, J., de Graaff, W., Duluc, I., Freund, JN., Beck, F., Mallo, M. and Deschamps, J. (2009). Cdx and Hox genes differentially regulate posterior axial growth in mammalian embryos. Dev Cell 17, 516-526.

Holstege, J., de Graaff, W., Hossaini, M., Cardone-Cardo, S., Jaarsma, D., van den Akker, E., Deschamps, J. (2008) Loss of Hoxb8 alters spinal dorsal laminae and sensory responses in mice. Proc. Natn. Acad. Sci. USA 105: 6338-6343.

van Nes, J., de Graaff, W., Lebrin, F., Gerhard, M., Beck, F., Deschamps J. (2006) The Cdx4 mutation affects axial development and reveals an essential role of Cdx genes in the ontogenesis of the placental labyrinth in mice. Development 133: 419-428.

Deschamps, J., van Nes, J. (2005) Developmental regulation of the Hox genes during axial morphogenesis in the mouse. Development 132: 2931-2942.

Forlani, S., Lawson, K.A., Deschamps, J. (2003) Acquisition of Hox codes during gastrulation and axial elongation in the mouse embryo. .Development 130: 3807-3819.

Publication list