Palatogenesis and potential mechanisms for clefting

This review concentrates on mechanisms of palatogenesis. This includes theo ries of shelf elevation, the role of matrix and identification of molecules and growth factors, which have key roles, The areas where failure to devel op could potentially lead to clefting are highlighted. A key part of shelf fusion is the breakdown of the medial edge epithelium, a process that is pr obably dependent on enzymes involved in matrix turnover. There is good evid ence that the matrix metalloproteinases may provide a common link to the mu ltiple genetic and environmental factors that are known to cause clefting.