Why is it called the hedgehog pathway?
The pathway takes its name from its polypeptide ligand, an intracellular signaling molecule called Hedgehog (Hh) found in fruit flies of the genus Drosophila; fruit fly larva lacking the Hh gene are said to resemble hedgehogs.
What does Sonic hedgehog gene do?
Normal Function. The SHH gene provides instructions for making a protein called Sonic Hedgehog. This protein functions as a chemical signal that is essential for embryonic development. Sonic Hedgehog plays a role in cell growth, cell specialization, and the normal shaping (patterning) of the body.
What is the Sonic hedgehog gene responsible for in embryo development?
Sonic hedgehog contributes to cell growth, cell specification and formation, structuring and organization of the body plan. This protein functions as a vital morphogenic signaling molecule and plays an important role in the formation of many different structures in developing embryos.
What did the hedgehog gene do in fruit flies?
In fruit flies, hedgehog proteins kickstart a cascade of molecular changes that switch on a set of ‘target’ genes. They do this by ultimately altering the activity of a protein called cubitus interruptus, which comes in two lengths: a long version called Ci-155 and a short version called Ci-75.
Who is the villain in Sonic?
Dr. Ivo Robotnik
“Sonic The Hedgehog” is now a movie. Carrey plays the evil villain Dr. Ivo Robotnik, a man who wants to control the world. Sonic has come to live a peaceful life on Earth – but the not-so-good doctor isn’t having it.
What animals have sonic hedgehog gene?
The three Hh genes identified in mice and in humans are sonic hedgehog (Shh), desert hedgehog (Dhh), and Indian hedgehog (Ihh), which are similarly processed and secreted from cells, and evoke common signaling pathways in receiving cells (Ingham and McMahon, 2001).
Why is it called the sonic hedgehog gene?
Tabin’s lab, detected what proved to be the most fascinating hedgehog gene of all, he rebeled against the system and decided to call the gene Sonic hedgehog, after a character in a Sega computer game. Many other scientists detest the new name, saying it trivializes a noble molecule.
Is a hedgehog invertebrate or vertebrate?
There are three classes of vertebrate hh genes: Sonic hedgehog, Indian hedgehog, and Desert hedgehog, with most vertebrate species possessing one member from each gene family. Mammals, including humans, and birds have one gene from each family: Sonic hh (Shh), Indian hh (Ihh), and Desert hh (Dhh).