Role of Slit2/Robo1 signaling in development of neural tube and somites in early chick embryos

AIM: To investigate the effects of Slit2/Robo1 signaling on the development of neural tube and somites in early chick embryos. METHODS: Plasmid DNA was injected into the lumen of the neural tube from dorsal side of HH10 chick embryo using microinjection, and then in ovo electroporation was performed at half-side of neural tube while another side served as control. Subsequent 10-hour incubation was carried on after transfection until the development of neural tube and neural crest cells migrating to somites were investigated using the methods of immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization. RESULTS: Blocking Slit2/Robo1 signaling resulted in abnormal development of neural tube, while the expression of Slug and neural crest cells migrating to somites pathway were abnormal as well.CONCLUSION: Slit2/Robo1 signaling can affect the expression of Slug and play an important role in the fusion of neural fold, the trajectory of generation and migration of neural crest cells, and the differentiation of somites in early chick embryos.