dichotomous subdivision of terminal units involved in lung branching

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which a lung bud bifurcates. [GOC:dph, GOC:mtg_lung]

Lung branching, a critical process in lung development, involves the dichotomous subdivision of terminal units, known as buds. This process begins with the formation of an epithelial bud from the primitive lung bud, which then undergoes a series of coordinated steps: 1) **Bud elongation:** The bud elongates along its long axis, forming a cylindrical structure. 2) **Tip splitting:** The elongated bud then splits at its distal tip, creating two new buds. 3) **Bud differentiation:** The newly formed buds differentiate into distinct airway structures, including the airway epithelium, smooth muscle, and cartilage. 4) **Branching pattern:** The dichotomous branching pattern continues iteratively, generating the complex branching pattern of the mature lung. This intricate process is governed by a complex interplay of signaling pathways, transcription factors, and extracellular matrix components. Key signaling pathways involved include the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) pathway, the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway, and the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway. These pathways regulate the expression of various genes that control bud elongation, tip splitting, and differentiation. Transcription factors such as Tbx4, Nkx2.1, and Sox2 are also crucial for regulating lung development. Extracellular matrix components like laminin and fibronectin provide structural support and guide cell migration during branching morphogenesis. The process of dichotomous subdivision ensures the generation of a vast network of airways, providing a large surface area for gas exchange. Dysregulation of lung branching can lead to various lung diseases, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia and congenital lung malformations.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (10)