MicroRNA regulation of neural tube closure

这个项目的目标是确定控制神经管闭合的分子机制。神经管缺损是人类最常见的先天性结构性畸形之一。在这个项目中，我们重点研究了一个多能性高表达的microRNA家族，miR-302，它在神经管闭合过程中起着关键作用。通过基因功能缺失小鼠、鸡和人类模型，我们发现miR-302是防止神经上皮早性分化所必需的。此外，我们提供的数据表明miR- 302在患有神经管闭合缺陷的人类中发生突变。该项目将为神经管发育的早期阶段提供见解，并告知我们对microrna如何控制这一关键过程的理解。

The goal of this project is to define the molecular mechanisms governing neural tube closure. Neural tube defects (NTDs) are amongst the most common human structural congenital malformations. In this project, we focus on a highly expressed microRNA family in pluripotency, miR-302, which plays a critical role during neural tube closure. Using genetic loss-of-function mouse, chicken and human models, we find that miR-302 is required to prevent precocious differentiation of the neuroepithelium. Additionally, we present data suggesting that miR- 302 is mutated in humans with neural tube closure defects. This project will provide insight into the earliest stages of neural tube development and inform our understanding of how microRNAs control this critical process.