Expression Analysis of CTHRC1 in the Murine Embryo during Mid-facial Development

Collagen Triple Helix Repeat Containing 1 (CTHRC1) has been shown to regulate collagen expression, cell migration and interact with the Wnt/planar cell polarity pathway. Objective: Determine CTHRC1 expression in the midface of mouse embryos during craniofacial development. Methods: qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the expression of Cthrc1 at embryonic (E) days of development E8.5-E13.5. Results: CTHRC1 expression was in the notochord and neural tube at E8.5, mesenchyme of the midface at E9.5-E10.5 and areas of cartilage formation at E11.5-E13.5. Conclusions: The expression of CTHRC1 in the developing craniofacial region suggests a role of CTHRC1 in migration of cranial neural crest cells and in chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation. We speculate the functions of CTHRC1 during craniofacial development are via its interactions with the Wnt/PCP pathway, shown previously to play a significant role during craniofacial development. Support: Donald G. Woodside Fund and NSERC.M.Sc