Christian N. Paxton, Ph.D.
The Research
University of Utah
The role of Fgf4 in otic placode induction
Development and patterning of the inner ear is a complex process that is mediated by several signaling molecules, including members of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. We recently found that Fgf4 is expressed in the ear-forming region just prior to the induction of ear development. Fgf4 has not previously been described in the induction or formation of the inner ear. Based on its temporal and spatial pattern of expression we hypothesize that Fgf4 is involved in the early processes of ear development and propose to investigate its role(s) in these processes by determining whether it is sufficient and/or required to induce the early stages of inner ear development. We also will examine the signals responsible for localizing Fgf4 expression to the otic forming domain.