Distinct expression patterns of Hedgehog signaling components in mouse gustatory system during postnatal tongue development and adult homeostasis

Using lacZ reporter mouse models, we mapped expression of the HH ligand SHH, HH receptors, and GLI transcription factors in fungiform, circumvallate and foliate taste papillae in early and late postnatal and adult stages. In adults we also studied the soft palate, and the geniculate and trigeminal ganglia, which extend afferent fibers to the anterior tongue.

本研究利用lacZ报告基因小鼠模型（lacZ reporter mouse models），对出生后早期、晚期及成年阶段小鼠的菌状乳头、轮廓乳头与叶状味觉乳头（fungiform, circumvallate and foliate taste papillae）中Hedgehog（HH）配体音猬因子（SHH）、HH受体以及GLI转录因子（GLI transcription factors）的表达分布进行了定位分析。在成年小鼠中，本课题组还针对软腭以及向舌前部延伸传入神经纤维的膝状神经节与三叉神经节（geniculate and trigeminal ganglia）开展了相关研究。