EphA4 (Sek1) receptor tyrosine kinase is required for the development of the corticospinal tract

Author(s): Dottori, M; Hartley, L; Galea, M; Paxinos, G; Polizzotto, M; Kilpatrick, T; Bartlett, PF; Murphy, M; Kontgen, F; Boyd, AW;
Details: Publication Year 1998-10-27,Volume 95,Issue #22,Page 13248-13253
Journal Title: PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Publication Type: Journal Article
Abstract: Members of the Eph family of tyrosine kinase receptors have been implicated in the regulation of developmental processes and, in particular, axon guidance in the developing nervous system. The function of the EphA4 (Sek1) receptor was explored through creation of a null mutant mouse. Mice with a null mutation in the EphA4 gene are viable and fertile but have a gross motor dysfunction, which is evidenced by a loss of coordination of limb movement and a resultant hopping, kangaroo-like gait. Consistent with the observed phenotype, anatomical studies and anterograde tracing experiments reveal major disruptions of the corticospinal tract within the medulla and spinal cord in the null mutant animals. These results demonstrate a critical role for EphA4 in establishing the corticospinal projection.
Publisher: NATL ACAD SCIENCES
Keywords: SPINAL-CORD; TRANSMEMBRANE LIGANDS; COMMISSURAL AXONS; GENE-EXPRESSION; NERVOUS-SYSTEM; IN-VITRO; GUIDANCE; FAMILY; PROJECTION; HINDBRAIN
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.95.22.13248
Terms of Use/Rights Notice: Refer to copyright notice on published article.

Creation Date: 1998-10-27 12:00:00