Correct patterning of the developing brain is crucial for accurate wiring and function. Although the adult brain contains complicated structures and networks, it begins with a simple structure- the neural tube. As it develops the neural tube is divided into several regions, such as telencephalon, diencephalon, midbrain and hindbrain. In each of these regions signaling molecules are secreted from distinct signaling centers, which establish positional information and regulate regional growth. It is interesting that similar signaling molecules are expressed in different regions of the brain and yet control significantly different patterning mechanisms. Furthermore, it is not yet clear how the same signaling molecules show analogous expression in different species; however these species form nervous systems with quite different brain anatomies and neural connections. To understand this, we will reveal the molecular mechanisms that pattern the thalamus in chick and mouse, and that govern its functional roles with the rest of the brain.

In utero electroporation-mediated gene transfer system.
Embryos are visualized through the uterus and plasmid DNA was injected into the left cerebral ventricle of each embryo through a glass capillary. A fine tungsten negative electrode and a platinum positive electrode were inserted into the left and right hemispheres, respectively, and a series of three square-wave current pulses were delivered, resulting in gene transfection into the medial wall of the left hemisphere. After 24 hours the electroporation was performed, localized ectopic gene expression is shown only on one side of the brain (right bottom).

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