heart induction

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The close range interaction between mesoderm and endoderm or ectoderm that causes cells to change their fates and specify the development of the heart. [GOC:mtg_heart]

Heart induction is a complex biological process that involves a coordinated interplay of signaling molecules, transcription factors, and cell-cell interactions. It begins during early embryonic development, specifically in the mesoderm, a germ layer that gives rise to various tissues and organs. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key steps involved:

**1. Specification of the Cardiogenic Region:**

- The process starts with the specification of the cardiogenic mesoderm, the region of the mesoderm that will give rise to the heart. This specification is driven by a combination of signals, including fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and retinoic acid (RA).

**2. Formation of the Cardiac Crescent:**

- The cardiogenic mesoderm, under the influence of these signaling molecules, migrates to the ventral midline of the embryo, forming a crescent-shaped structure called the cardiac crescent. This process involves cell migration and adhesion.

**3. Tube Formation and Looping:**

- The cardiac crescent then undergoes a series of transformations. The cells within the crescent start to differentiate and acquire specific functions. They form two tubes, the right and left cardiac tubes, which then fuse together to create a single heart tube. This tube then undergoes a series of loops and bends to form the basic structure of the heart.

**4. Chamber Development:**

- The heart tube continues to develop and differentiate, forming the chambers of the heart. This process involves the growth and partitioning of the heart tube, leading to the formation of the atria, ventricles, and other structures.

**5. Valve Development:**

- Concurrently with chamber formation, valves develop within the heart. These valves, which are crucial for regulating blood flow, are formed by the proliferation and differentiation of specialized cells in the heart tube.

**6. Maturation and Refinement:**

- The heart continues to mature throughout embryonic and fetal development. Its size increases, its chambers become more defined, and its electrical conduction system develops. This process involves complex interactions between cells, signaling pathways, and extracellular matrix components.

In summary, heart induction is a precise and intricate process that relies on the coordinated action of various molecular and cellular mechanisms. This process is essential for the development of a functional and efficient heart that can pump blood throughout the body.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (4)