BioNews - Cleft lip genetically repaired in mice: Scientists have genetically repaired cleft lip and palate in mouse embryos in a breakthrough that could pave the way for new treatments of the common birth defects in humans.
The team identified mutations in the Pbx family of genes that resulted in complete cleft lip, with or without cleft palate. These genes produce proteins which have previously been identified as playing a part in skeletal and organ development, but their role in face shape is a 'new and surprising finding.'
They found Pbx genes regulate a signalling pathway that includes a number of proteins known to be involved in cleft lip formation. By restoring the activity of one gene, known as Wnt, which plays a prominent role in embryo development, the researchers were able to repair cleft lips in mouse embryos.
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