Research Description

Genetic and molecular control of limb pattern formation and evolution

We are studying how the temporal expression of growth factors, their receptors and homeobox genes permit development of embryonic pattern. We utilize a variety of cellular and molecular approaches to understand how the limb field is determined, how growth of the amniote limb is initiated and maintained and its three-dimensional pattern established.

Recent Publications

Szebenyi, G. and J.F. Fallon. 1999. FGFs as multifunctional signaling factors. Internat’l Review Cytology, 185:45-106. Invited review by I.R.C. Editorial Board.

Caruccio, N., A. López-Martínez, M. Harris, L. Dvorak, J. Bitgood, B.K. Simandl, and J.F. Fallon. 1999. Constitutive activation of Sonic Hedgehog signaling in the chicken mutant talpid2: Shh independent outgrowth and polarizing activity. Devel. Biol., 212:137-149.

Dahn, R.D. and J..F. Fallon. 2000. Interdigital Regulation of Digit Identity and Homeotic Transformation by Modulated BMP Signaling. Science, 289:438-441 (Comment in: Science 2000; 289:372-3).

Wang, B., J.F. Fallon, and P.A. Beachy. 2000. Long-range hedgehog signaling within the developing vertebrate limb produces an anterior/posterior gradient of Gli3 repressor. Cell, 100:423-434.

Chiang, C., Y. Litingtung, M.P. Harris, B.K. Simandl, Y. Li, P.A. Beachy, and J. F. Fallon. 2001. Manifestation of the Limb Prepattern: Limb Development in the Absence of Sonic Hedgehog Function. Dev.Biol. 236:421-435.