Sonic Hedgehog Protein: A Key Player in Embryonic Development

Sonic hedgehog protein (SHH), encoded by the SHH gene, is a crucial signaling molecule in embryonic development across humans and other animals. It plays a key role in regulating embryonic morphogenesis, controlling organogenesis and the organization of the central nervous system, limbs, digits, and many other body parts. SHH mutations can lead to holoprosencephaly and other developmental disorders. Abnormal SHH signaling activation in adult tissues has been implicated in various cancers. The discovery of the SHH gene stemmed from fruit fly experiments, with its name inspired by the video game character. SHH is vital in neural tube patterning, its concentration gradient determining the differentiation of various neuronal subtypes. Its role extends to lung development and has potential regenerative functions.
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