Genes that control the development of migrating muscle precursor cells

Skeletal muscles in vertebrates, despite their functional and biochemical s imilarities, are generated via diverse developmental mechanisms. A major su bclass of hypaxial muscle groups is derived from long-range migrating proge nitor cells that delaminate from the dermomyotome. The development of this lineage is controlled by Pax3, the c-Met tyrosine kinase receptor, its liga nd SF/HGF (scatter factor/hepatacyte growth factor) and the homeobox factor Lbx1. These molecules are essential for establishment of the precursor poo l, delamination, migration and target finding. Progress has been made in un derstanding patterning of the muscles, which requires a precise control of proliferation and differentiation of myogenic precursor cells.