AER Signals Outgrowth of Mesenchyme Cells

Authors

Owen Owens, Brigham Young University
Dr. Jeffery R. Barrow, Brigham Young University

Keywords

AER, Apical Ectodermal Ridge, mesenchyme cells, limb formation

College

Life Sciences

Department

Physiology and Developmental Biology

Abstract

The Apical Ectodermal Ridge has been of great interest to those studying the development of the mammalian limb every since it was discovered that the AER is vital to the formation of correct limb patterning and general limb formation. The AER is a ridge of cells located on the tip of the mammalian limb where it signals inner cells, called mesenchyme during development. This study analyzed proliferation, or cell dividing, and apoptosis, or programmed cell death, of mesenchymal cells in the hope to support the hypothesis that the AER signals mesenchymal cells to migrate, not proliferate or undergo apoptosis. We hoped to observe negligible AER directed proliferation at +5, +7, +12, and +24 hours of development.

Recommended Citation

Owens, Owen and Barrow, Dr. Jeffery R. (2014) "AER Signals Outgrowth of Mesenchyme Cells," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 878.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/878