positive regulation of cardiac neural crest cell migration involved in outflow tract morphogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the frequency, rate or extent of cardiac neural crest cell migration involved in outflow tract morphogenesis. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:BHF, GOC:rl, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:17628518]

The precise choreography of cardiac neural crest (CNC) cell migration is crucial for the proper development of the outflow tract (OFT), the region connecting the heart to the great vessels. Positive regulation of CNC migration during OFT morphogenesis involves a complex interplay of molecular signals, cellular interactions, and extracellular matrix components. CNC cells, originating from the neural tube, embark on a well-defined journey, migrating ventrally through the pharyngeal arches and ultimately reaching the OFT region. This migration is guided by chemoattractant gradients, such as the secreted protein neuregulin-1 (NRG1), which acts as a potent attractant for CNC cells. The NRG1 signaling pathway involves activation of ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases, leading to downstream signaling cascades that promote cell motility, adhesion, and survival. Additionally, the guidance cues provided by the extracellular matrix play a critical role in directing CNC migration. CNC cells express integrins, transmembrane proteins that bind to specific extracellular matrix proteins, such as fibronectin and laminin. These interactions promote cell adhesion and provide traction for migration. Furthermore, the expression of specific transcription factors, such as Sox9 and Snail, is essential for regulating CNC migration. Sox9 is involved in controlling cell fate and promoting migration, while Snail represses cell adhesion, facilitating cell movement. In addition to these molecular pathways, physical interactions between CNC cells and other cell types, such as endocardial cells, are also important for guiding migration. This intricate interplay between cell-cell interactions, chemoattractant signaling, and ECM interactions ensures the precise and efficient migration of CNC cells, contributing to the formation of a functional OFT. Disruptions in this regulatory process can lead to congenital heart defects, highlighting the importance of understanding the positive regulation of CNC migration in OFT morphogenesis.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (3)