The Role of Retinoic Acid in Establishing the Early Limb Bud

Retinoic acid (RA) was one of the first molecules in the modern era of experimental embryology to be shown capable of generating profound effects on limb development. In this review, we focus on the earliest events of limb development and specifically on the role of RA in establishing the domain of cells that will go on to form the limb itself. Although there is some consensus on the role of RA during the earliest stages of limb formation, some controversy remains on the mechanism of RA action and the requirement for RA signaling in forming the hindlimb buds.

Hyaluronic acid, CD44 and RHAMM regulate myoblast behavior during embryogenesis

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an extracellular matrix (ECM) component that has been shown to play a significant role in regulating muscle cell behavior during repair and regeneration. For instance, ECM remodeling after muscle injury involves an upregulation in HA expression that is coupled with skeletal muscle precursor cell recruitment. However, little is known about the role of HA during skeletal muscle development. To gain insight into the way in which HA mediates embryonic myogenesis, we first determined the spatial distribution and gene expression of CD44, RHAMM and other HA related proteins in embryonic day (E)10.5 to E12.5 murine forelimbs. While HA and CD44 expression remained high, RHAMM decreased at both the protein (via immunohistochemistry) and RNA (via qPCR) levels. Next, we determined that 4-methylumbelliferone-mediated knockdown of HA synthesis inhibited the migration and proliferation of E11.5/E12.5 forelimb-derived cells. Then, the influence of CD44 and RHAMM on myoblast and connective tissue cell behavior was investigated using antibodies against these receptors. Anti-RHAMM, but not anti-CD44, significantly decreased the total distance myogenic progenitors migrated over 24 h, whereas both inhibited connective tissue cell migration. In contrast, anti-CD44 inhibited the proliferation of connective tissue cells and muscle progenitors, but anti-RHAMM had no effect. However, when myoblasts and connective tissue cells were depleted of CD44 and RHAMM by shRNA, motility and proliferation were significantly inhibited in both cells indicating that blocking cell surface-localized CD44 and RHAMM does not have as pronounced effect as global shRNA-mediated depletion of these receptors. These results show, for the first time, the distribution and activity of RHAMM in the context of skeletal muscle. Furthermore, our data indicate that HA, through interactions with CD44 and RHAMM, promotes myogenic progenitor migration and proliferation. Confirmation of the role of HA and its receptors in directing myogenesis will be useful for the design of regenerative therapies that aim to promote the restoration of damaged or diseased muscle.

Pitx1 determines characteristic hindlimb morphologies in cartilage micromass culture

The shapes of homologous skeletal elements in the vertebrate forelimb and hindlimb are distinct, with each element exquisitely adapted to their divergent functions. Many of the signals and signalling pathways responsible for patterning the developing limb bud are common to both forelimb and hindlimb. How disparate morphologies are generated from common signalling inputs during limb development remains poorly understood. We show that, similar to what has been shown in the chick, characteristic differences in mouse forelimb and hindlimb cartilage morphology are maintained when chondrogenesis proceeds in vitro away from the endogenous limb bud environment. Chondrogenic nodules that form in high-density micromass cultures derived from forelimb and hindlimb buds are consistently different in size and shape. We described analytical tools we have developed to quantify these differences in nodule morphology and demonstrate that characteristic hindlimb nodule morphology is lost in the absence of the hindlimb-restricted limb modifier gene Pitx1. Furthermore, we show that ectopic expression of Pitx1 in the forelimb is sufficient to generate nodule patterns characteristic of the hindlimb. We also demonstrate that hindlimb cells are less adhesive to the tissue culture substrate and, within the limb environment, to the extracellular matrix and to each other. These results reveal autonomously programmed differences in forelimb and hindlimb cartilage precursors of the limb skeleton are controlled, at least in part, by Pitx1 and suggest this has an important role in generating distinct limb-type morphologies. Our results demonstrate that the micromass culture system is ideally suited to study cues governing morphogenesis of limb skeletal elements in a simple and experimentally tractable in vitro system that reflects in vivo potential.

Human adult dental pulp stem cells enhance poststroke functional recovery through non-neural replacement mechanisms

Human adult dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), derived from third molar teeth, are multipotent and have the capacity to differentiate into neurons under inductive conditions both in vitro and following transplantation into the avian embryo. In this study, we demonstrate that the intracerebral transplantation of human DPSCs 24 hours following focal cerebral ischemia in a rodent model resulted in significant improvement in forelimb sensorimotor function at 4 weeks post-treatment. At this time, 2.3 ± 0.7% of engrafted cells had survived in the poststroke brain and demonstrated targeted migration toward the stroke lesion. In the peri-infarct striatum, transplanted DPSCs differentiated into astrocytes in preference to neurons. Our data suggest that the dominant mechanism of action underlying DPSC treatment that resulted in enhanced functional recovery is unlikely to be due to neural replacement. Functional improvement is more likely to be mediated through DPSC-dependent paracrine effects. This study provides preclinical evidence for the future use of human DPSCs in cell therapy to improve outcome in stroke patients.

Pectoral fins of Micropogonias furnieri: a histochemical and ultrastructural study

The myotomal fibres of the pectoral fins of white croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) have been studied using histochemical techniques and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) for mitochondria, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) for glycogen, Sudan Black for lipids and myosin-adenosintriphosphatase (mATPase) pre-incubated at alkaline and acid pHs were used to visualize the contraction velocity. Three zones were determined: superficial (SZ), medium (MZ) and deep (DZ). Staining for SDH, PAS and Sudan Black was positive only in the SZ. The level of alkaline mATPase was the highest in fibres from the DZ, intermediate in the MZ and low in the SZ; at an acid pH, the reverse was obtained. Fibres from the SZ were small with large quantities of subsarcolemmal mitochondria, scarce intermyofibrilar mitochondria and a well-developed sarcoplasmic reticulum; the myofibrils displayed a polygonal distribution along the entire length of the fibre. Fibres in the MZ were larger than those in the SZ, the myofibrils were densely packed, mitochondria prevailed under the sarcolemma and the sarcoplasmic reticulum was not abundant. Fibres from the DZ were the largest, with ribbon-shaped myofibrils and scarce mitochondria. The intercellular space was abundant and nervous endings were frequently observed.

Cellular electroporation induces dedifferentiation in intact newt limbs

Newts have the remarkable ability to regenerate lost appendages including their forelimbs, hindlimbs, and tails. Following amputation of an appendage, the wound is rapidly closed by the migration of epithelial cells from the proximal epidermis. Internal cells just proximal to the amputation plane begin to dedifferentiate to form a pool of proliferating progenitor cells known as the regeneration blastema. We show that dedifferentiation of internal appendage cells can be initiated in the absence of amputation by applying an electric field sufficient to induce cellular electroporation, but not necrosis or apoptosis. The time course for dedifferentiation following electroporation is similar to that observed following amputation with evidence of dedifferentiation beginning at about 5 days postelectroporation and continuing for 2 to 3 weeks. Microarray analyses, real-time RT-PCR, and in situ hybridization show that changes in early gene expression are similar following amputation or electroporation. We conclude that the application of an electric field sufficient to induce transient electroporation of cell membranes induces a dedifferentiation response that is virtually indistinguishable from the response that occurs following amputation of newt appendages. This discovery allows dedifferentiation to be studied in the absence of wound healing and may aid in identifying genes required for cellular plasticity.

Newt orthologue ofGrowth arrest-specific 6 (NvGas6) is implicated in stress response during newt forelimb regeneration

Red-spotted newts are capable of regenerating various structures and organs through the process of epimorphic regeneration. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and their ligands are important for normal cellular development and physiology but most have not yet been characterised during regeneration. We have isolated a newt orthologue of Growth arrest-specific 6 (NvGas6), and examined its expression during forelimb regeneration and within a blastema cell line (B1H1). During limb regeneration, NvGas6 expression increases upon amputation, peaks during maximal blastema cell proliferation, and is subsequently downregulated during redifferentiation. Transcripts are localised to the wound epithelium and distal mesenchymal cells during dedifferentiation and proliferative phases, and scattered within redifferentiating tissues during later stages. In B1H1 cultures, NvGas6 is upregulated under reduced serum conditions and myogenesis. Treatment with mimosine and colchicine or exposure to heat shock or anoxia results in upregulation of NvGas6 expression. Taken together, our findings suggest that during regeneration, NvGas6 expression may be upregulated in response to cellular stress.

A framework for three-dimensional simulation of morphogenesis

We present COMPUCELL3D, a software framework for three-dimensional simulation of morphogenesis in different organisms. COMPUCELL3D employs biologically relevant models for cell clustering, growth, and interaction with chemical fields. COMPUCELL3D uses design patterns for speed, efficient memory management, extensibility, and flexibility to allow an almost unlimited variety of simulations. We have verified COMPUCELL3D by building a model of growth and skeletal pattern formation in the avian (chicken) limb bud. Binaries and source code are available, along with documentation and input files for sample simulations, at http:// compucell.sourceforge.net.

Bone Quality in Swine Composite Tissue Allografts: Effects of Combination Immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus (FK506)/mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)/prednisone combination immunosuppression therapy has been found to effectively prevent composite tissue allograft (CTA) rejection with minimal toxicity in a preclinical porcine model. These findings have been reproduced in 24 human hands transplanted in 18 patients. In CTAs containing bone, adequate bone quality and healing are essential for long-term functional success. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect FK506/MMF/prednisone immunotherapy has on bone quality and healing.

METHODS

Forelimb CTA-flaps were transplanted in nine pigs. Recipient animals received FK506/MMF/prednisone therapy for 3 months. Bone quality was studied pre- and posttransplant by measuring acoustic velocity and density and by calculating elastic coefficients. Additional bone quality analyses were performed on unoperated limbs, and in bone grafts from two pigs that had autograft procedures performed. Bone healing was assessed using radiographic analysis.

RESULTS

Three animals were lost to immunosuppression-related complications before the endpoint of the study. The bone component of all six CTA-flaps showed normal healing. Although results of the bone density measurements were not significantly different when comparing pre- to posttransplant values, acoustic velocity and elastic coefficient measurements showed a significant decrease posttransplant indicating a decrease in bone quality.

CONCLUSIONS

FK506/MMF/prednisone combination therapy prevented rejection, did not adversely affect bone quality, and showed normal bone healing. The transplant procedure itself decreased bone quality more than the immunosuppression regimen did over the observation period in this study. Based on these findings, we conclude to prevent CTA failure it is important to monitor bone quality posttransplant.

An in vitro method for analysis of chondrogenesis in limb mesenchyme from individual transgenic (hdf) embryos

The present study describes a simple, rapid protocol for culture for limb tissue from individual 10.5-day post coitum mouse embryos that supports cartilage differentiation over a six-day period. This technique differs from other commonly used methods utilizing pooled limb tissue in that: 1) forelimbs from individual embryos were used as donor tissue; 2) limb tissue was dissociated by very gentle enzymatic digest (0.1% trypsin, 5 min); and, 3) cell suspensions were plated at a lower density (1 x 10(7) vs. 2 x 10(7) cells/ml) in a reduced volume of 3-5 microl. Under these modified conditions to increase limb cell yield from each embryo, histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated reproducible formation of precartilage aggregates and subsequent overt chondrogenesis over a predictable time course. Using this culture protocol, analysis of limb mesenchyme from heterozygous hdf embryos, which bear an insertional mutation of the Cspg2 gene encoding the core protein of the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, versican, revealed an overall similar chondrogenic potential to that observed for wild-type littermates. This technique readily enables in vitro culture of limb bud mesenchyme from individual mouse embryos at this developmental stage and may be utilized by investigators to study the effects of the hdf and other transgenic mutations on mammalian limb development in vitro.

Muscle formation in regeneratingXenopus froglet limb

A spike, a resultant regenerate made after amputation of a Xenopus froglet limb, has no muscle tissue. This muscle-less phenotype was analyzed by molecular approaches, and the results of analysis revealed that the spike expresses no myosin heavy chain or Pax7, suggesting that neither mature muscle tissue nor satellite cells exist in the spike. The regenerating blastema in the froglet limb lacked some myogenesis-related marker genes, myoD and myf5, but allowed implanted muscle precursor cells to survive and differentiate into myofiber. Implantation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) -releasing cell aggregates rescued this muscle-less phenotype and induced muscle regeneration in Xenopus froglet limb regenerates. These results suggest that failure of regeneration of muscle is due to a disturbance of the early steps of myogenesis under a molecular cascade mediated by HGF/c-met. Improvement of muscle regeneration in the Xenopus adult limb that we report here for the first time will give us important insights into epimorphic tissue regeneration in amphibians and other vertebrates.

Transcriptome analysis of the murine forelimb and hindlimb autopod

To gain insight into the coordination of gene expression profiles during forelimb and hindlimb differentiation, a transcriptome analysis of mouse embryonic autopod tissues was performed using Affymetrix Murine Gene Chips (MOE-430). Forty-four transcripts with expression differences higher than 2-fold (T test, P < or = 0.05) were detected between forelimb and hindlimb tissues including 38 new transcripts such as Rdh10, Frzb, Tbx18, and Hip that exhibit differential limb expression. A comparison of gene expression profiles in the forelimb, hindlimb, and brain revealed 24 limb-signature genes whose expression was significantly enriched in limb autopod versus brain tissue (fold change >2, P < or = 0.05). Interestingly, the genes exhibiting enrichment in the developing autopod also segregated into significant fore- and hindlimb-specific clusters (P < or = 0.05) suggesting that by E 12.5, unique gene combinations are being used during the differentiation of each autopod type.

Survival of developing motor neurons mediated by Rho GTPase signaling pathway through Rho-kinase

A variety of neurons generated during embryonic development survive or undergo programmed cell death (PCD) at later developmental stages. Survival or death of developing neurons is generally considered to depend on trophic support from various target tissues. The small GTPase Rho regulates diverse cellular processes such as cell morphology, cell adhesion, cell motility, and apoptosis. Rho-dependent serine-threonine protein kinase (Rho-kinase-ROK-ROCK), one of the effector proteins, transmits signals for some Rho-mediated processes. Here, we report the in vivo role of the Rho signaling pathway through Rho-kinase during development of motor neurons (MNs) in the spinal cord. We performed conditional expression of a dominant-negative form for RhoA (RhoA DN) or for Rho-kinase (Rho-K DN) in transgenic mice by using the Cre-loxP system to suppress the activity of these signaling molecules in developing MNs. Expression of RhoA DN reduced the number of MNs in the spinal cord because of increased apoptosis while preserving the gross patterning of motor axons. Expression of Rho-K DN produced developmental defects similar to those observed in RhoA DN expression. In addition, analysis of transgenic mice expressing Rho-K DN showed that the increased apoptosis of MNs was induced at the early embryonic stages before the initiation of PCD, and that MN death at the late embryonic stages corresponding to the period of PCD was moderately enhanced in the transgenic mice. These findings indicate that the Rho signaling pathway, primarily through Rho-kinase, plays a crucial role in survival of spinal MNs during embryogenesis, particularly at the early developmental stages.

Long-term potentiation induces expanded movement representations and dendritic hypertrophy in layer V of rat sensorimotor neocortex

While long-term potentiation (LTP) is currently the most widely investigated model of the synaptic mechanisms underlying learning, there is a paucity of reports on the direct effects of LTP on cortical organization. Here we show that strengthening polysynaptic potentiation correlates with an expanded neocortical area that responds to intracortical microstimulation-induced movements of rat forelimb and increased dendritic material in layer V pyramidal cells. Rats carried a stimulating electrode in the corpus callosum (midline), and a recording electrode in the right caudal forelimb area (CFA). Each rat received 15 days of either high frequency stimulation (HFS) or handling. Evoked potentials of the transcallosal pathway were recorded in the right hemisphere before and after 15 days of stimulation or handling. Following the last stimulation, movement representations were determined in the left CFA using high-resolution intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) and then the brains were processed for Golgi-Cox staining. Our results show that synaptic modification results in a recruitment of more neocortical area into movement representations and increases in several measures of dendritic morphology in layers III and V. This study sheds light on the interaction between artificial models of learning, receptive field characteristics and dendritic morphology in the sensorimotor cortex.

Myf5 and MyoD activation define independent myogenic compartments during embryonic development

Gene targeting has indicated that Myf5 and MyoD are required for myogenic determination because skeletal myoblasts and myofibers are missing in mouse embryos lacking both Myf5 and MyoD. To investigate the fate of Myf5:MyoD-deficient myogenic precursor cells during embryogenesis, we examined the sites of epaxial, hypaxial, and cephalic myogenesis at different developmental stages. In newborn mice, excessive amounts of adipose tissue were found in the place of muscles whose progenitor cells have undergone long-range migrations as mesenchymal cells. Analysis of the expression pattern of Myogenin-lacZ transgene and muscle proteins revealed that myogenic precursor cells were not able to acquire a myogenic fate in the trunk (myotome) nor at sites of MyoD induction in the limb buds. Importantly, the Myf5-dependent precursors, as defined by Myf5(nlacZ)-expression, deficient for both Myf5 and MyoD, were observed early in development to assume nonmuscle fates (e.g., cartilage) and, later in development, to extensively proliferate without cell death. Their fate appeared to significantly differ from the fate of MyoD-dependent precursors, as defined by 258/-2.5lacZ-expression (-20 kb enhancer of MyoD), of which a significant proportion failed to proliferate and underwent apoptosis. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that Myf5 and MyoD regulatory elements respond differentially in different compartments.

Responses to amputation of denervated ambystoma limbs containing aneurogenic limb grafts

The developing neural tubes and associated neural crest cells were removed from stage 30 Ambystoma maculatum embryos to obtain larvae with aneurogenic forelimbs. Forelimbs were allowed to develop to late 3 digit or early 4 digit stages. Limbs amputated through the mid radius-ulna regenerated typically in the aneurogenic condition. Experiments were designed to test whether grafts of aneurogenic limb tissues would rescue denervated host limb stumps into a regeneration response. In Experiment 1, aneurogenic limbs were removed at the body wall and grafted under the dorsal skin of the distal end of amputated forelimbs of control, normally innervated limbs of locally collected Ambystoma maculatum or axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) larvae. In Experiment 1, at the time of grafting or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 8 days after grafting, aneurogenic limbs were amputated level with the original host stump. At 7 and 8 days, this amputation included removing the host blastema adjacent to the graft. The host limb was denervated either one day after grafting or on the day of graft amputation. These chimeric limbs only infrequently exhibited delayed blastema formation. Thus, not only did the graft not rescue the host, denervated limb, but the aneurogenic limb tissues themselves could not mount a regeneration response. In Experiment 2, the grafted aneurogenic limb was amputated through its mid-stylopodium at 3, 4, 5, 7, or 8 days after grafting. By 7 and 8 days after grafting, the host limb stump exhibited blastema formation even with the graft extending out from under the dorsal skin. The host limb was denervated at the time of graft amputation. When graft limbs of Experiment 2 were amputated and host limbs were denervated on days 3, 4, or 5, host regeneration did not progress and graft regeneration did not occur. But, when graft limbs were amputated on days 7 or 8 with concomitant denervation of the host limb, regeneration of the host continued and graft regeneration occurred. Thus, regeneration of the graft was correlated with acquisition of nerve-independence by the host limb blastema. In Experiment 3, aneurogenic limbs were grafted with minimal injury to the dorsal skin of neurogenic hosts. When neurogenic host limbs were denervated and the aneurogenic limbs were amputated through the radius/ulna, regeneration of the aneurogenic limb occurred if the neurogenic limb host was not amputated, but did not occur if the neurogenic limb host was amputated. Results of Experiment 3 indicate that the inhibition of aneurogenic graft limb regeneration on a denervated host limb is correlated with substantial injury to the host limb. In Experiment 4, aneurogenic forelimbs were amputated through the mid-radius ulna and pieces of either peripheral nerve, muscle, blood vessel, or cartilage were grafted into the distal limb stump or under the body skin immediately adjacent to the limb at the body wall. In most cases, peripheral nerve inhibited regeneration, blood vessel tissue sometimes inhibited, but other tissues had no effect on regeneration. Taken together, the results suggest: (1) Aneurogenic limb tissues do not produce the neurotrophic factor and do not need it for regeneration, and (2) there is a regeneration-inhibiting factor produced by the nerve-dependent limb stump/blastema after denervation that prevents regeneration of aneurogenic limbs.

Functions of FGF signalling from the apical ectodermal ridge in limb development

To determine the role of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signalling from the apical ectodermal ridge (AER), we inactivated Fgf4 and Fgf8 in AER cells or their precursors at different stages of mouse limb development. We show that FGF4 and FGF8 regulate cell number in the nascent limb bud and are required for survival of cells located far from the AER. On the basis of the skeletal phenotypes observed, we conclude that these functions are essential to ensure that sufficient progenitor cells are available to form the normal complement of skeletal elements, and perhaps other limb tissues. In the complete absence of both FGF4 and FGF8 activities, limb development fails. We present a model to explain how the mutant phenotypes arise from FGF-mediated effects on limb bud size and cell survival.

Manifestation of the limb prepattern: limb development in the absence of sonic hedgehog function

The secreted protein encoded by the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) gene is localized to the posterior margin of vertebrate limb buds and is thought to be a key signal in establishing anterior-posterior limb polarity. In the Shh(-/-) mutant mouse, the development of many embryonic structures, including the limb, is severely compromised. In this study, we report the analysis of Shh(-/-) mutant limbs in detail. Each mutant embryo has four limbs with recognizable humerus/femur bones that have anterior-posterior polarity. Distal to the elbow/knee joints, skeletal elements representing the zeugopod form but lack identifiable anterior-posterior polarity. Therefore, Shh specifically becomes necessary for normal limb development at or just distal to the stylopod/zeugopod junction (elbow/knee joints) during mouse limb development. The forelimb autopod is represented by a single distal cartilage element, while the hindlimb autopod is invariably composed of a single digit with well-formed interphalangeal joints and a dorsal nail bed at the terminal phalanx. Analysis of GDF5 and Hoxd11-13 expression in the hindlimb autopod suggests that the forming digit has a digit-one identity. This finding is corroborated by the formation of only two phalangeal elements which are unique to digit one on the foot. The apical ectodermal ridge (AER) is induced in the Shh(-/-) mutant buds with relatively normal morphology. We report that the architecture of the Shh(-/-) AER is gradually disrupted over developmental time in parallel with a reduction of Fgf8 expression in the ridge. Concomitantly, abnormal cell death in the Shh(-/-) limb bud occurs in the anterior mesenchyme of both fore- and hindlimb. It is notable that the AER changes and mesodermal cell death occur earlier in the Shh(-/-) forelimb than the hindlimb bud. This provides an explanation for the hindlimb-specific competence to form autopodial structures in the mutant. Finally, unlike the wild-type mouse limb bud, the Shh(-/-) mutant posterior limb bud mesoderm does not cause digit duplications when grafted to the anterior border of chick limb buds, and therefore lacks polarizing activity. We propose that a prepattern exists in the limb field for the three axes of the emerging limb bud as well as specific limb skeletal elements. According to this model, the limb bud signaling centers, including the zone of polarizing activity (ZPA) acting through Shh, are required to elaborate upon the axial information provided by the native limb field prepattern.

Misexpression of Fgf-4 in the chick limb inhibits myogenesis by down-regulating Frek expression

Skeletal muscle development involves an initial period of myoblast replication followed by a phase in which some myoblasts continue to proliferate while others undergo terminal differentiation. The latter process involves the permanent cessation of DNA synthesis, activation of muscle-specific gene expression, and fusion of single cells to generate multinucleated muscle fibres. The in vivo signals regulating the progression through all these steps remain unknown. Fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs) and Fgf receptors comprise a large family whose members have been shown to play multiple roles in the development of skeletal muscle in vitro. Exogenously applied Fgfs are able to stimulate proliferation and suppress myogenic differentiation in cell culture. We sought to determine the role played by Fgf-4 during limb myogenesis in vivo. Fgf-4 transcripts are located at both extremities of myotubes whereas the mRNAs of one of the Fgf receptors, Frek, are detected in mononucleated proliferating myoblasts surrounding the multinucleated fibres. Overexpression of mouse Fgf-4 (mFgf-4) using a replication-competent retrovirus, RCAS, leads to a down-regulation of muscle markers followed by an inhibition of terminal differentiation in limb muscles. Using quail/chick transplantations we were able to follow the muscle cells and found a dramatic decrease in their number after exposure to mFgf-4. Interestingly ectopic mFgf-4 down-regulates Frek transcripts in limb muscle areas. We conclude that overexpression of mFgf-4 inhibits myoblast proliferation, probably by down-regulating Frek mRNAs. This suggests a role for Fgf-4, located at the extremities of the myotubes, where it could be responsible for the absence of Frek mRNA in the muscle fibre.

Changes in expression of the lysosomal membrane glycoprotein, LAMP-1 in interdigital regions during embryonic mouse limb development, in vivo and in vitro

Syndactyly, a failure of the digits to separate into individual units, affects about 8 to 9 per 1000 newborns and results from an aberration of the normal development of the interdigital tissues. Limb digit separation is the result of programmed cell death (apoptosis). Lysosomes play a role in the process of cell self-destruction. Our experiment was designed to test the hypothesis that the intensity of interdigital lysosomes increases during the separation of digits in vivo and in vitro. The primary mouse monoclonal antibody, 1D4B, detects the presence of lysosomes by identifying the LAMP-1 glycoprotein on the lysosome cell membrane. In our experiment this antibody immunodetected interdigital lysosome proteins in serial sections of limbs from Swiss-Webster mouse embryos, gestational ages E12.5 through E15, key developmental stages for digit separation. Digit separation was associated with an increase in intensity of lysosomal protein staining. In E12.5 limbs, the presence of lysosomes was enriched in the distal aspect of the interdigital tissue. However, the number of lysosomes markedly increased in the E13 and E14 limbs, including the entire length and width of the interdigital tissue in the E14 limbs. This lysosomal protein presence in E14 limbs was significant compared to E12.5, E13, and E15 limbs. By day 12.5, the mouse embryo limb is committed to digit separation. Addition of retinoic acid to the culture medium of limbs earlier in development, such as E12, results in induction of the process of digit separation. Cultured E12 limbs that did not receive an addition of retinoic acid, did not show digit separation. We conclude that in the limb development process, the enrichment in interdigit LAMP-1 proteins, may indicate a relationship between lysosomes, apoptosis, and digit separation. We also conclude that retinoic acid has an important role in digit separation in vivo, as shown in limb development, and demonstrated through the addition of retinoic acid to media of cultured tissues.

Visualizing muscle cell migration in situ

BACKGROUND

Cell migration has been studied extensively by manipulating and observing cells bathed in putative chemotactic or chemokinetic agents on planar substrates. This environment differs from that in vivo and, consequently, the cells can behave abnormally. Embryo slices provide an optically accessible system for studying cellular navigation pathways during development. We extended this system to observe the migration of muscle precursors from the somite into the forelimb, their cellular morphology, and the localization of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged adhesion-related molecules under normal and perturbed conditions.

RESULTS

Muscle precursors initiated migration synchronously and migrated in broad, rather than highly defined, regions. Bursts of directed migration were followed by periods of meandering or extension and retraction of cell protrusions. Although paxillin did not localize to discernible intracellular structures, we found that alpha-actinin localized to linear, punctate structures, and the alpha5 integrin to some focal complexes and/or vesicle-like concentrations. Alterations in the expression of adhesion molecules inhibited migration. The muscle precursors migrating in situ formed unusually large, long-lived protrusions that were polarized in the direction of migration. Unlike wild-type Rac, a constitutively active Rac localized continuously around the cell surface and promoted random protrusive activity and migration.

CONCLUSIONS

The observation of cellular migration and the dynamics of molecular organization at high temporal and spatial resolution in situ is feasible. Migration from the somite to the wing bud is discontinuous and not highly stereotyped. In situ, local activation of Rac appears to produce large protrusions, which in turn, leads to directed migration. Adhesion can also regulate migration.

Influence of longitudinal whole animal clinorotation on lens, tail, and limb regeneration in urodeles

Two species of newts (Urodela) and two types of clinostats for fast clinorotation (60 rpm) were used to investigate the influence of simulated weightlessness on regeneration and to compare results obtained with data from spaceflight experiments. Seven or fourteen days of weightlessness in Russian biosatellites caused acceleration of lens and limb regeneration by an increase in cell proliferation, differentiation, and rate of morphogenesis in comparison with ground controls. After a comparable time of clinorotation the results obtained with Triturus vulgaris using a horizontal clinostat were similar to those found in spaceflight. In contrast, in Pleurodeles waltl using both horizontal and radial clinostats the results were contradictory compared to Triturus. We speculate that different levels of gravity or/and species specific thresholds for gravitational sensitivity could be responsible for these contradictory results.

Peripheral nerve extract effects on mesenchymal cells

Several common congenital limb disorders are characterized by normal tissue differentiation but abnormal somatic growth. These include: idiopathic clubfoot, idiopathic leg length discrepancy, hemi-atrophy and hemi-hypertrophy. Both clinical and research studies have suggested that peripheral nerves may be important in regulating somatic growth of limb tissues. To investigate the hypothesis that peripheral nerves convey trophic substances to mesenchymal tissues that are involved in the regulation of growth, we developed an in vitro assay to assess the effect of fractions of peripheral nerve on myoblast and chondroblast growth and differentiation in a mammalian (rat) system. Whole rat sciatic nerve extract was fractionated by ammonium sulfate precipitation and by affinity chromatography. Concavalin A chromatography resolved whole nerve extract into a glycoprotein and a non-glycoprotein fraction. Serial ammonium sulfate precipitation yielded three pellet fractions designated as 35%, 70%, and 100% pellets; corresponding to ammonium sulfate concentrations of 0 to 35%, 35 to 70%, and 70 to 100% saturation, respectively. Dialyzed solutions of these pellets as well as the fractions from Concavalin A chromatography were assayed for biological activity in micromass cultures of rat limb bud mesenchyme, which allowed assessment of both myoblast and chondroblast stimulation. Stimulation of protein synthesis and myoblast proliferation (as measured by MF20 staining) occurred with both 70% and 100% ammonium sulfate fractions. Stimulation of chondroblasts (as measured by the number of alcian blue staining nodules) occurred with the 35% and 100% fractions. The glycoprotein fraction from the affinity chromatography stimulated protein synthesis and myoblast proliferation and inhibited chondroblast development. Stimulation of chondroblasts was seen with the non-glycoprotein fraction. No effect on protein synthesis, myoblast proliferation or chondroblast proliferation was found in cultures treated with rat transferrin (transferrin has been reported to stimulate myoblasts in avian culture systems).

Mesenchymal commitment to digital joint formation

Temporal and spatial commitment of in vivo and in vitro mammalian digital joint development were characterized in a murine model. Alcian blue and alizarin red staining were used to label proteoglycans of cartilage matrix and mineralized matrix in both whole mounts and histological sections. Mesenchymal differentiation toward a joint fate was identified by a lack of matrix deposition in islands of joint precursor cells between phalangeal precursors, and localized lysosomal enzyme activity was later demonstrated in these regions during formation of the joint cavity. Organ-cultured forelimbs and in vivo specimens demonstrated analogous digital joint morphological trends. With a defined developmental window, reverse transcription, polymerase chain reaction, demonstrated differential gene expression of transforming growth factor-beta isotypes, aggrecan core protein, and type II collagen, suggesting a role for transforming growth factor-beta in directing digital joint development.

Effects of ethylnitrosourea on expression of proto-oncogene pp60c-src and high-molecular-weight neurofilament protein in rodent embryo central nervous system cells in vitro

Effects of exposure to ethylnitrosourea (ENU) on expression of proteins that play a role in neuronal differentiation were examined in central nervous system (CNS) micromass embryo cell cultures. ENU is a known developmental toxicant which affects neuronal development. The proteins selected were the protein product of the src proto-oncogene (pp60c-src) and high-molecular-weight neurofilament protein (NF). pp60c-src has marked increases in amount and kinase activity in neurons at the time of differentiation and NF is found in differentiated neurons. CNS micromass cultures are primary cells from Day 12 rat embryo midbrains which are plated at high density and differentiate into neurons during 5 days in culture. Proteins were quantitated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis separation of equal amounts of total cell protein followed by transfer to membranes, immunoblotting, and densitometric scanning of blots. Dose-dependent decreases in cell growth and differentiation were confirmed using endpoints of cell number, protein content of cultures, neutral red uptake, hematoxylin staining of differentiated cells, and levels of binding of the neurotransmitter [3H]gamma-aminobutyric acid. Concentrations which inhibited response by 50% compared to controls ranged from 232 to 455 microM ENU. Dose-related decreases in amounts of pp60c-src and NF proteins relative to total protein were seen in CNS cultures treated with ENU. Results confirm the usefulness of the micromass cultures in following chemical effects on neuronal differentiation. The effects of ENU on specific proteins associated with neuronal differentiation were shown.

Unilateral forelimb amputation affects protein synthesis in ipsilateral and contralateral spinal cord and spinal ganglia neurons of the newt in vivo

The aim of this investigation was to analyze the effect of urodele limb amputation and blastema growth on the protein synthesis in spinal cord and spinal ganglia neurons corresponding to the 3rd and 4th spinal segment of young, postmetamorphic Triturus vulgaris, in vivo. Protein synthesis was studied on both trunk sides as a function of right forelimb amputation at the distal stylopodium, and blastema development, during a critical period of 22 days post amputation (dpa). Protein synthesis was assessed by counting silver grains on autoradiographs obtained after pulse labeling with tritiated phenylalanine. An electronic image analyzer was used to evaluate the results. During the period of observation, several statistically significant, yet moderate changes were observed in the protein synthesis of motor neurons. In contrast, the studied metabolic parameter exhibited considerable augmentation in sensory neurons and spinal nerve. The main results may be summarized as follows: (a) Limb amputation triggers protein synthesis in both ipsilateral and contralateral neural elements; (b) protein synthesis is higher on the ipsilateral than on the contralateral side; (c) as the aftermath of forelimb amputation, the 4th ipsilateral ganglion responds with an approximately 20% higher protein synthesis in comparison to the 3rd one; (d) peaks in protein synthesis are encountered mainly at two time points: 3 hpa and 14 dpa. Protein synthesis returns to control levels after 22 days of limb regeneration.

Epimorphic vs. tissue regeneration in Xenopus forelimbs

Postmetamorphic froglets of Xenopus laevis regenerate hypomorphic unbranched spikes from amputated arm stumps. These are composed primarily of cartilage, produced from blastemalike structures sparsely populated with cells and rich in connective tissue. Some consider these outgrowths to be an example of epimorphic regeneration produced from blastemas, albeit deficient ones. Others interpret them as a case of tissue regeneration derived from fibroblastemas augmented by chondrocytes and periosteal and perichondrial fibroblasts. To resolve these alternatives, forelimbs were amputated proximal to the wrist, skinned, and inserted through the body wall into the abdominal cavity. In the absence of skin, epidermal wound healing failed to occur and blastemas could not develop. After 2 months, by which time controls had regenerated spikes averaging 3.38 mm long, the denuded stumps had not given rise to outgrowths. They typically developed cartilaginous caps on the severed ends of the radius-ulna, and in rare cases formed amorphous growths of cartilage. If blastema formation is considered diagnostic of epimorphic regeneration and tissue regeneration can proceed in the absence of epidermal wound healing and blastema formation, these findings lead to the conclusion that Xenopus limb regeneration is epimorphic.

Biochemical organization of single motor units in two multi-tendoned muscles of the cat distal forelimb

In anesthetized cats single motor units (MUs) of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) and extensor digitorum communis (EDC) muscles were selectively activated by stimulation of cervical ventral root filaments. The distribution of force developed by single MUs at the four distal tendons of the EDC muscle and at three portions of the distal tendon of the ECU muscle was analysed. In general, single MUs of both muscles distributed force over all tendons in a unimodal pattern, with the maximal force levels generated at one specific tendon which was termed the best-tendon. Distributions of force were quantitatively described by a parameter representing the mean direction of force output (output-index) and a further one representing the dispersion of force over the distal tendons (divergence). Generally, these parameters and the best-tendon remained stable when a MU was stimulated at different frequencies, but varied from MU to MU. Despite the general stability of the force distribution, slight systematic changes were regularly found in EDC MUs, when they developed a higher amount of force due to a higher frequency of stimulation: the relative amount of force at the best-tendon increased; e.g. the MUs got more selective for the best-tendon. These changes were partly due to overcoming mechanical cross-coupling between neighbouring compartments of the EDC muscle. Such changes of force distribution were only found in a part of the ECU MUs; other ECU MUs did not change their force distribution at all or became less selective for the best-tendon. The phenomenon that MUs of multi-tendoned muscles distribute their force output to the distal tendons in specific patterns is probably due to mechanical partitioning of the parent muscles: the localization of spatial territories of MUs within different anatomical muscle compartments should correspond to the best-tendon. Complex mechanisms allowing passive transmission of force from limited territories along the transverse axis of both muscles must be assumed in order to explain why most MUs act on all tendons and why force distributions change with increasing stimulus frequency. In addition, specific relations between unit type and force distributions were found within both muscles. Fatigue-resistant EDC MUs have broader force distributions than fatigue-sensitive EDC MUs and slow ECU MUs were found to act predominantly on the most ulnar part of the distal tendon. These biomechanical properties of MUs are discussed as supporting the specific functions of the respective muscles.

Contractile properties of single motor units in two multi-tendoned muscles of the cat distal forelimb

The contractile properties of motor units (MUs) in two multi-tendoned forelimb muscles were investigated. In anesthetized cats single MUs of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) and extensor digitorum communis (EDC) muscles were selectively activated by stimulation of cervical ventral root filaments. MUs were characterized by various tests including single twitches, series of tetanic contractions providing a tension-frequency relation and a fatigue test. They were classified by the parameters contraction time (CT, time-to-peak within unpotentiated single twitches) and fatigue-index (RB, according to Burke). The ECU muscle is composed of 38% type FR MUs (fast, fatigue-sensitive; CT less than 38 ms; RB less than 0.5), 35% type FR MUs (CT less than 38 ms, RB greater than 0.5) and 27% type S MUs (slow; CT greater than 38 ms, RB greater than 0.5). 46% of the EDC MUs were classified as FF (RB less than or equal to 0.25), 29% as FI (fast, intermediately fatiguable; 0.25 less than RB less than 0.75) and 25% as FR/S (fatigue-resistant, fast or slow; RB greater than or equal to 0.75). The latter group was devised since most MUs appeared as fast and the unequivocal presence of slow MUs could neither be demonstrated nor excluded. Normalized tension-frequency relations of fast ECU and EDC MUs were nearly identical and similar to those reported for fast MUs of other muscles. In contrast to this, the tension-frequency relation of slow ECU MUs has a different shape supporting the use of this function to distinguish fast from slow MUs. The distribution of different types of MUs is discussed with regard to the structure and function of the parent muscles and in relation to hindlimb muscles of comparable architecture. As revealed by comparison to EMG data gained in behaving animals (Fritz et al. 1985; Hoffmann et al. 1986, Botterman et al. 1985), the three muscles of the cat distal forelimb investigated so far seem to be adapted to different tasks: the EDC to rapid movements with a high proportion of type FF MUs, flexor carpi radialis to sustained contractions during the body support with a high proportion of fatigue-resistant MUs; the ECU which changes synergism between both muscles has an intermediate composition.

Identification of the cellular retinoic acid binding protein (cRABP) within the embryonic mouse (CD-1) limb bud

Retinoic acid, a physiologically active metabolite of vitamin A, is known animal teratogen. Among other malformations, limb abnormalities are produced and are attributed to a selective inhibition of differentiating prechondrogenic mesenchyme resulting in reduced or absent cartilage elements. Evidence is available that the cellular retinoic acid binding protein (cRABP) may be important in mediating the biological effects of retinoic acid. In this study, the cRABP has been identified by sucrose gradient sedimentation analysis in the gestation day 10 (Theiler stages 16-17) mouse forelimb bud, which contains retinoic-acid-sensitive prechondrogenic mesenchyme. Saturation analysis demonstrated values for the apparent dissociation constant (Kd) of 2.0 and 2.2 X 10(-9)M and for the total specific binding capacity for [3H]-trans-retinoic acid of 24.5 and 25.6 pmoles per mg cytosolic protein. The binding specificity of the forelimb bud cRABP for all-trans-retinoic acid was demonstrated in competition assays using all-trans-retinol, all-trans-retinal, and 13-cis-retinoic acid. In addition, 13-cis-retinoic acid was demonstrated to have a lower affinity for the cRABP than all-trans-retinoic acid, a result which may be related to the lower teratogenic potency of the 13-cis-retinoic acid. Thus, the cRABP was demonstrated in the mouse forelimb bud at a time of susceptibility for the production of limb malformations by retinoic acid. The role of the cRABP in the mechanism of retinoic acid teratogenicity remains to be delineated.

Cellular behavior in the anteroposterior axis of the regenerating forelimb of the axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum

Cellular behavior along the anteroposterior axis of the regenerating axolotl forelimb was studied by use of triploid (3N) tissue grafted into diploid (2N) hosts and three-dimensional computer reconstructions. Asymmetrical upper forelimbs were surgically constructed with one half (anterior or posterior) 3N and the other half 2N. Limbs were amputated immediately after grafting or were permitted to heal for 5 or 30 days prior to amputation. When regenerates had attained the stage of digital outgrowth, the limbs were harvested and sectioned in the transverse axis for histological analysis. When all limbs bearing anterior grafts were considered as a group, 77% of the 3N mesodermal cells were observed in the anterior side of the regenerates and 23% were located in the posterior side of the regenerates. When all limbs bearing posterior grafts were considered as a group, 76% of the 3N mesodermal cells were found in the posterior side of the regenerate and 24% had crossed into the anterior side. Healing times of 0, 5, or 30 days prior to amputation had no effect on the experimental outcome. Three-dimensional computer reconstructions revealed that most 3N cells of mesodermal origin underwent short-distance migration from anterior to posterior or from posterior to anterior and intermixed with diploid mesodermal cells near the midpoint of the regenerated anteroposterior axis. Some 3N cells were observed at greater distances from the graft-host interface. By contrast, labeled epidermal cells from both anterior and posterior grafts exhibited long-distance migration across all surfaces of regenerated limbs. Details of a computer-assisted reconstructive method for studying the three-dimensional distribution of labeled cells in tissues are presented.

Fine structure of the forelimb regenerate of the African clawed toad, Xenopus laevis

Forelimb regenerates from postmetamorphic Xenopus froglets were examined at various stages postamputation by light microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The outside surface of the wound epithelium was found to exhibit progressive changes following amputation with a distinct difference in appearance between stump epidermis and wound epithelium at all stages examined. The internal structure of the wound epithelium is characterized by loosely arranged cells with numerous cell junctions and abundant intracellular filaments. The wound epithelium is separated at an early stage from the underlying cells by a thick band of extracellular matrix. Cells accumulating beneath the wound epithelium were morphologically similar to blastemal cells from completely regenerating limbs in other species but no evidence of myogenesis or abortive myogenesis was seen. Blastemal cells from the central portion of the regenerate were observed at varius stages of chrondrogenesis with those immediately beneath the wound epithelium least advanced in this respect. Those located more laterally appear not to be directly involved in chondrogenesis. Although the usual explanation for lack of complete regeneration in this species is inadequate innervation of the regenerate, the fine structure of the regenerating spikes noted here is markedly different than that of denervated, amputated newt limbs.

Studies of mitosis in excised limb regenerates of the newt, Notophthalmus viridescens

Subsequent to excision and explantation of the limb blastema into culture medium, there is an abrupt reduction in mitotic index lasting several hours. Coincident with the disappearance of mitosis, abnormal mitotic figures (AMFs), lacking the condensed chromosomal nature of normal figures, are seen. These persist until normal levels of mitotic activity are restored approximately 6 hr later. The transient loss of mitotic activity is observed in both ganglionated and nonganglionated explants. The large number of prophase figures observed at time zero were sharply reduced within minutes, without concomitant increases in the later phases. The possibility that some cells, without completing mitosis, become temporarily indistinguishable as mitotic figures, is discussed in terms of chromosomal decondensation and recondensation.

Autoradiographic investigations on the cell kinetics of epidermis and periderm of limb buds from mouse embryos in vitro

Upper limb buds of mouse embryos (day 11 + 3 h of development) were cultured for 6 days. During this time the epidermis develops from a two-layered stage, consisting of a basal cell layer and a periderm cell layer, to a multilayered squamous epithelium with a stratum granulosum and a stratum corneum. To investigate the cell kinetics of epidermis and periderm during epidermogenesis the limb buds were labelled with 3H-thymidine at different stages of development. The migration of labelled cells was studied on day 3 in vitro. In the first period of development, before a stratum granulosum has differentiated, each individual cell layer of the epidermis has a cell cycle of its own, i.e. once it has developed each cell layer grows independent of the other. The switching from horizontal to vertical proliferation starts on day 4 of culture with the appearance of the stratum granulosum and is completed on day 5 when a corneal layer begins to develop. With the appearance of the stratum corneum the limb bud shows the typical proliferation of the adult epidermis, which is regenerating only from the basal layer. The labeling behaviour of periderm cells also shows that these cells have a cell cycle of their own and are not formed by cells migrating from the epidermis in an upward direction.

Promotion of mitosis in cultured newt limb regenerates by a diffusible nerve factor

Regeneration blastemata of adult newt forelimbs were cultured transfilter to dorsal root ganglia on extremely low porosity (0.05 mu m) filters. Mitotic index profiles in these blastemata were compared with those obtained using filters of greater porosity (0.45 mu m). In the above experiments nerves and blastema tissue were separated by 5 or 25 mu m, i.e., the thickness of the respective filters. The results show that the transfilter mitogenic effect of the nerves was retained when the lower pore size filters were used. In addition, sensory ganglia grown at the bottom of a culture well, separated from the blastema explants by a distance of approximately 2 mm, were nevertheless able to promote blastema cell proliferation. The ganglia can thus be considered to be providing a "sustained conditioning" of the medium with neuromitogenic factor(s). This study also shows that nerves can promote blastema cell mitosis, although cell-to-cell contact between nerves and responding cells was precluded.

Development of ferret limb buds in organ culture

The forelimb bud explants from ferret embryos at days 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 of gestation were cultured in a Trowell organ culture system. Satisfactory differentiation of the limb bud skeleton was achieved with limbs from embryos explanted at 22 days of gestation (up to 50 somites). Limb buds explanted at 20 and 21 days had poorly differentiated distal segments while those explanted at 23 and 24 days of pregnancy provided less information because chondrogenesis was already under way at the beginning of culture. Thus we conclude that the optimal time for culture of ferret limb buds is at 22 days of gestation. The level of differentiation corresponded to that obtained with mouse limb buds from 11 to 12 day embryos (40-43 somites). The time taken to achieve this level of differentiation in the ferret was 18 days compared with 6 days in the mouse.

Selection of a chemically defined medium for culturing adult newt forelimb regenerates

Three commercially available tissue-culture media were evaluated for their ability to support continued growth and differentiation of 14-day regenerates of adult newt forelimbs. Serums, embryo extracts, egg ultrafiltrates, and antimicrobial agents were avoided in this analysis. The hormones insulin and L-thyroxine were added to these chemically defined media to enhance continued cellular metabolism and growth. The optimum conditions appeared to be cultivated at 25 degrees C (pH 7.2 to 7.4) in media osmotically adjusted to conditions approximating amphibian blood values (i.e. 225 m0SM for 199, 244 m0SM for CMRL-1066, and 262 m0SM FOR L-15).

Inhibition and axial deviation of limb regeneration in the newt by means of a digit implanted into the amputated limb

This research was designed to follow up the observation of Thornton and Kraemer ('51) that regressed, denervated limbs of Ambystoma larvae will not regenerate upon reinnervation if all digits on the limbs were not completely resorbed. The object of this experiment was to determine whether the presence of an apical structure, protruding past the amputation surface, would affect the regenerative process. Both forearms of adult newts were amputated midway between the elbow and the wrist. One limb served as a normal regeneration control, and in the other limb the third digit from the removed hand was implanted in place of the removed radius, so that the three distal phalangeal segments protruded past the plane of amputation. Blastema formation in the experimental limbs was delayed by several weeks as compared with control limbs. Approximately one third of the experimental limbs did not regenerate. The regenerates that did form were strongly deviated (45-90 degrees) radially from the longitudinal axis of the limb. Experimental analysis showed that the delay in regeneration is due largely to the projecting part of the digit. The radial deviation of the regenerates is not due to the digital implant, but rather to the removal of the radius. Trauma alone does not account for this phenomenon.

The influence of D-penicillamine on the proliferation rate of cells from the upper limb bud of mouse embryos in vitro

D-Penicillamine was given on the fourth day of culture of limb buds from 11-day mouse embryos at a dose of 100 microng/ml medium and allowed to react for 24 hours. On day 5 there was found a significant decrease in the [3H] thymidine labeling index of cartilage cells and of cells of the perichondrium, whereas mesenchyme cells showed no decrease in proliferation under these conditions. The toxic effects of D-penicillamine on prenatal skeletal developement in vivo could therefore result not only from direct action on collagen but also via inhibition of proliferation of cartilage cells.

The pattern of cell division during growth of the blastema of regenerating newt forelimbs

Pulse and continuous labelling with tritiated thymidine are used for a quantitative study of cell division rates in regeneration blastemas. Proliferation is initially uniform; later a proximo-distal gradient develops in the mesenchyme, with the highest labelling index at the tip, where practically all cells are shown to be dividing. In the ectoderm there appear to be two growth bands, one close to the stump and the other close to the tip. The results are consistent with the progress zone theory, and agree well with the numerical estimates of growth rates used in our previously reported simulation.

[Cellular degeneration in the apical crest of the limb bud of the moorish turtle (Testudo graeca L., Chelonian)]

Intracytoplasmic degeneration bodies are present early in the cells of the apical ridge of the limbbud in embryos of Testudo graeca; next, they are obvious in the apical fold till formation of the analgen of the fingers. This cell death may be responsible for a certain rudimentation of the limb (reduction of length of phalanges) in this species of Turtle.

Effects on adult newt limb regeneration of partial and complete skin flaps over the amputation surface

The influence of the wound epithelium on the cellular events preceding blastema formation was examined by comparing dedifferentiation, DNA labeling indices, and mitotic indices of the distal mesodermal tissues in control regenerating newt forelimbs and in amputated forelimbs covered with a flap of full thickness skin. Three kinds of results were seen following the skin-flap graft operations. Epidermal migration across the amputation surface was completely inhibited in 22% (8) of the cases and these limbs repaired the amputation wound but did not form regeneration blastemas. In 11% (4) of the experimental limbs, essentially normal wound epithelia displaced the skin flaps and the limb stumps formed blastemas and regenerated. The majority of the skin grafts (67%) exhibited epidermal migration restricted to the free edges of the flaps. These limbs formed eccentric blastemas on the ventral side of the limb next to the dermis-free epidermis and regenerated laterally in that direction.

In vitro studies of limb regeneration in adult Diemictylus viridescens: neural dependence of blastema cells for growth and differentiation

Explants of 99 adult newt forelimb blastemata (21- to 24-day regenerates) were cultured, with and without implanted dorsal root ganglia, in modified Parker's medium (CMRL-1415) for periods of 72-144 h. Growth and differentiation of the cultured blastemata were compared with ganglionated and non-ganglionated controls fixed at the start of the culture period. The results of these experiments establish that implanted spinal ganglia are able to sustain growth and differentiation of forelimb blastemata in vitro: active proliferation amongst the blastema cells was found to be correlated with the presence of an implanted ganglion. In addition, the blastema cells exhibited a differential growth response which was most pronounced when the ganglion was eccentrically implanted 2-3 days before explantation of the limb regenerate. These results suggest that a causal relationship exists between the position of the implanted ganglion and the localization of growth within the blastema. The nerve influence, believed to be mediated by a chemical factor(s), was localized in the region of the implanted neurons, indicating that a close association between the nerves and the responding blastema cells is essential for normal growth. The importance of the physical presence of nerves for the cultivation of blastemata in vitro is emphasized.