Document Detail


Mouse models of neural tube defects: investigating preventive mechanisms.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  15800852     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Neural tube defects (NTD), including anencephaly and spina bifida, are a group of severe congenital abnormalities in which the future brain and/or spinal cord fail to close. In mice, NTD may result from genetic mutations or knockouts, or from exposure to teratogenic agents, several of which are known risk factors in humans. Among the many mouse NTD models that have been identified to date, a number have been tested for possible primary prevention of NTD by exogenous agents, such as folic acid. In genetic NTD models such as Cart1, splotch, Cited2, and crooked tail, and NTD induced by teratogens including valproic acid and fumonisins, the incidence of defects is reduced by maternal folic acid supplementation. These folate-responsive models provide an opportunity to investigate the possible mechanisms underlying prevention of NTD by folic acid in humans. In another group of mouse models, that includes curly tail, axial defects, and the Ephrin-A5 knockout, NTD are not preventable by folic acid, reflecting the situation in humans in which a subset of NTD appear resistant to folic acid therapy. In this group of mutants alternative preventive agents, including inositol and methionine, have been shown to be effective. Overall, the data from mouse models suggests that a broad-based in utero therapy may offer scope for prevention of a greater proportion of NTD than is currently possible.
Authors:
Nicholas D E Greene; Andrew J Copp
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review    
Journal Detail:
Title:  American journal of medical genetics. Part C, Seminars in medical genetics     Volume:  135C     ISSN:  1552-4868     ISO Abbreviation:  -     Publication Date:  2005 May 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2005-04-25     Completed Date:  2005-07-26     Revised Date:  2008-05-21    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  101235745     Medline TA:  Am J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  31-41     Citation Subset:  IM    
Copyright Information:
Copyright 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc
Affiliation:
Neural Development Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, UK. n.greene@ich.ucl.ac.uk
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Animals
Disease Models, Animal*
Embryonic Development / genetics*
Humans
Mice
Mice, Knockout
Neural Tube Defects / embryology,  etiology,  prevention & control*

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