Brief Communication abstract


Nature Cell Biology 7, 918 - 920 (2005)
Published online: 1 September 2005 | doi:10.1038/ncb1294



There is an Erratum (November 2005) associated with this Brief Communication.

terra is a left–right asymmetry gene required for left–right synchronization of the segmentation clock

Leonor Saúde1, Raquel Lourenço1, Alexandre Gonçalves1 & Isabel Palmeirim2

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To establish the vertebrate body plan, it is fundamental to create left–right asymmetry in the lateral-plate mesoderm to correctly position the organs. However, it is also crucial to maintain symmetry between the left and the right sides of the presomitic mesoderm, ensuring the allocation of symmetrical body structures, such as the axial skeleton and skeletal muscles. Here, we show that terra is an early left-sided expressed gene that links left–right patterning with bilateral synchronization of the segmentation clock.

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  1. Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Centro de Biologia do Desenvolvimento, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal.
  2. Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.

Correspondence to: Leonor Saúde1 e-mail: mlsaude@igc.gulbenkian.pt




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