Study Finds Pressure in the Womb May Shape Facial Features
Study Discovers Increased Pressure Impairs Growth of Embryonic Stem Cells Critical for Facial Features Development.
An international research team examined the growth patterns of mouse and frog embryos, as well as human embryoids (aggregates of embryonic cells cultured in laboratory settings) to delve into the mechanisms through which certain cells regulate growth and differentiation.
They observed that applying external hydrostatic pressure to the embryo or embryoid disrupted essential cell signaling pathways in neural crest cells.
Risks of Craniofacial Abnormalities Due to Compromised Tissue Development
These findings suggest that critical developmental stages could compromise tissue development, thereby increasing the risk of craniofacial abnormalities.
Researchers believe that such anomalies result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including nutrient availability.
“Our research indicates that physical cues such as pressure in the womb could influence facial malformations, in addition to genetic factors,” explains neurobiologist Roberto Mayor from University College London (UCL).
During embryonic induction, cells are directed along distinct biological pathways by chemical signals from neighboring tissues. While scientists understand some of these triggers, many remain unidentified.
The study specifically investigated the blastocoel, a fluid-filled cavity near the site of neural crest development.
Pressure Effects on Yap Protein Activity and Wnt Signaling in Neural Crest Development
The blastocoel’s pressure was found to reduce Yap protein activity, subsequently impairing a set of signaling molecules called Wnt. These molecules play a crucial role in instructing the neural crest’s developmental trajectory.
While the study did not delve into the origins of heightened pressures within the human uterus, its findings shed light on the mechanical impacts on the embryo, an area often overshadowed by biochemical factors in most investigations.
“As an organism undergoes pressure alterations, all its cells—including the embryo within the mother—are capable of detecting these changes,” explains Mayor.
This research marks a significant advancement in scientists’ comprehension of human (and other vertebrate) embryogenesis, delving into the molecular intricacies and signaling pathways involved in the earliest developmental stages.
Uncertainty Surrounding Specific Effects of Uterine Environmental Changes on Human Fetal Development
While the study reveals that pressure can diminish the efficiency of neural crest signaling, the precise effects of specific alterations in the uterine environment on human fetal development remain uncertain.
“Our study underscores the sensitivity of embryos to pressure, yet the extent of this sensitivity remains unknown,” states Mayor. “For instance, could variations in uterine pressure impact embryo development?“
“Further investigations are necessary to elucidate how internal bodily changes and environmental pressure fluctuations might influence the development of human embryos.”
Read the original article on: Science Alert
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