Neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem receive, integrate and relay somatosensory and
viscerosensory information. The Maf and Lbx1 transcription factors are expressed mainly in
lamina III of the mature dorsal horn, i.e. in neurons thought to participate in mechanoreception.
We will use conditional mutagenesis to assess Maf and Lbx1 functions in mature neurons.
Additionally, we will define Lbx1 functions in breathing, and generate a mouse model carrying a
Lbx1 mutation identical to the one identified in patients with congenital central hypoventilation
syndrome.
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