HEMATOPOIETIC EFFECTS OF ACTIVATING THE HEDGEHOG PATHWAY

Abstract

The hedgehog proteins are important for normal human development. They are expressed on cells of the brain and developing limbs and provide important signals to neighbouring cells so that development of the brain and limbs can occur normally. Mutations in genes within the hedgehog signalling pathway lead to congenital abnormalities such as failure of the brain to fold properly and shortened limbs or extra digits. Hedgehog proteins also stimulate the growth of adult stem cells that are responsible for the maintenance of many adult tissues such as the skin, bone and hair. Excessive hedgehog signalling however can lead to cancers, particularly of the brain and skin. The ability of hedgehog prot..