OBJECTIVES: To compare and contrast the gene expression of two LIM-homeobox type transcription factors, Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8, in secondary palate formation. METHODS: In situ hybridization histochemistry with digoxygenin (DIG) labelled cRNA probes specific for Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8. MATERIALS: Serial cryo-sections of embryonic day (E)13.5, 14.5, and 15.5 mice (C57BL/6). OUTCOME MEASURE: Comparison of the signal intensities of NBT/BCIP precipitate by alkaline phosphatase conjugated anti-DIG antibody. RESULTS: From E13.5 to E15.5, Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8 signals are detected in palatal mesenchyme, but the L3/Lhx8 signal is much more intense than the Lhx6 signal. In palatal epithelium, covering the mesenchyme, Lhx6 mRNA is transiently expressed at E14.5, while L3/Lhx8 mRNA expression is never detected throughout the development. CONCLUSION: Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8 functions may be partially redundant in the mesenchyme of the secondary palate, but not in the palatal epithelium.
OBJECTIVES: To compare and contrast the gene expression of two LIM-homeobox type transcription factors, Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8, in secondary palate formation. METHODS: In situ hybridization histochemistry with digoxygenin (DIG) labelled cRNA probes specific for Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8. MATERIALS: Serial cryo-sections of embryonic day (E)13.5, 14.5, and 15.5 mice (C57BL/6). OUTCOME MEASURE: Comparison of the signal intensities of NBT/BCIP precipitate by alkaline phosphatase conjugated anti-DIG antibody. RESULTS: From E13.5 to E15.5, Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8 signals are detected in palatal mesenchyme, but the L3/Lhx8 signal is much more intense than the Lhx6 signal. In palatal epithelium, covering the mesenchyme, Lhx6 mRNA is transiently expressed at E14.5, while L3/Lhx8 mRNA expression is never detected throughout the development. CONCLUSION:Lhx6 and L3/Lhx8 functions may be partially redundant in the mesenchyme of the secondary palate, but not in the palatal epithelium.