MESP2

This gene encodes a member of the bHLH family of transcription factors and plays a key role in defining the rostrocaudal patterning of somites via interactions with multiple Notch signaling pathways. This gene is expressed in the anterior presomitic mesoderm and is downregulated immediately after the formation of segmented somites. This gene also plays a role in the formation of epithelial somitic mesoderm and cardiac mesoderm. Mutations in the MESP2 gene cause autosomal recessive spondylocostal dystosis 2 (SCD02). [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

MESP2

Function

Transcription factor with important role in somitogenesis. Defines the rostrocaudal patterning of the somite by participating in distinct Notch pathways. Regulates also the FGF signaling pathway. Specifies the rostral half of the somites. Generates rostro-caudal polarity of somites by down-regulating in the presumptive rostral domain DLL1, a Notch ligand. Participates in the segment border formation by activating in the anterior presomitic mesoderm LFNG, a negative regulator of DLL1-Notch signaling. Acts as a strong suppressor of Notch activity. Together with MESP1 is involved in the epithelialization of somitic mesoderm and in the development of cardiac mesoderm.

Biological Process

Heart morphogenesis Source: GO_Central
Mesoderm formation Source: GO_Central
Notch signaling pathway Source: UniProtKB-KW
Regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II Source: GO_Central
Somite rostral/caudal axis specification Source: GO_Central

Cellular Location

Nucleus

Involvement in disease

Spondylocostal dysostosis 2, autosomal recessive (SCDO2):
A condition of variable severity associated with vertebral and rib segmentation defects. The main skeletal malformations include fusion of vertebrae, hemivertebrae, fusion of certain ribs, and other rib malformations. Deformity of the chest and spine (severe scoliosis, kyphoscoliosis and lordosis) is a natural consequence of the malformation and leads to a dwarf-like appearance. As the thorax is small, infants frequently have respiratory insufficiency and repeated respiratory infections resulting in life-threatening complications in the first year of life.

PTM

Degraded by the proteasome.