Development of secondary palate requires strict regulation of ECM remodeling: sequential distribution of RECK, MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9

We have evaluated RECK (reversion-inducing-cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs), MMP-2 (matrix metalloproteinase-2), MMP-3, and MMP-9 involvement during palate development in mice by using various techniques. Immunohistochemical features revealed the distribution of RECK, MMP-2, and MMP-3 in the mesenchymal tissue and in the midline epithelial seam at embryonic day 13 (E13), MMPs-2, -3, and -9 being particularly expressed at E14 and E14.5. In contrast, RECK was weakly immunostained at these times. Involvement of MMPs was validated by measuring not only their protein expression, but also their activity (zymograms). In situ hybridization signal (ISH) for RECK transcript was distributed in mesenchymal and epithelial regions within palatal shelves at all periods evaluated. Importantly, the results from ISH analysis were in accord with those obtained by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expression of RECK was found to be temporally regulated, which suggested possible roles in palatal ontogeny. Taken together, our results clearly show that remodeling of the extracellular matrix is finely modulated during secondary palate development and occurs in a sequential manner.

Universidade de São Paulo - Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa PRP-USP

Universidade de São Paulo - Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa PRP-USP

CAPES

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

FAPESP[01/10707-7]

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

FAPESP[08/53003-9]

CNPq[350084/03-3]

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

CNPq[475721/2003-9]

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

CNPq[505350/04-1]

Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos (FINEP)

FINEP[01.04.0469.00]