The initial establishment and epithelial morphogenesis of the esophagus: a new model of tracheal–esophageal separation and transition of simple columnar into stratified squamous epithelium in the developing esophagus

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

E-ISSN: 1759-7692|4|4|419-430

ISSN: 1759-7684

Source: WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS: DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY (ELECTRONIC), Vol.4, Iss.4, 2015-07, pp. : 419-430

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Abstract

The esophagus and trachea are tubular organs that initially share a single common lumen in the anterior foregut. Several models have been proposed to explain how this single‐lumen developmental intermediate generates two tubular organs. However, new evidence suggests that these models are not comprehensive. I will first briefly review these models and then propose a novel ‘splitting and extension’ model based on our in vitro modeling of the foregut separation process. Signaling molecules (e.g., SHHs, WNTs, BMPs) and transcription factors (e.g., NKX2.1 and SOX2) are critical for the separation of the foregut. Intriguingly, some of these molecules continue to play essential roles during the transition of simple columnar into stratified squamous epithelium in the developing esophagus, and they are also closely involved in epithelial maintenance in the adults. Alterations in the levels of these molecules have been associated with the initiation and progression of several esophageal diseases and cancer in adults. WIREs Dev Biol 2015, 4:419–430. doi: 10.1002/wdev.179For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.Conflict of interest: The author has declared no conflicts of interest for this article.