Lim-1 is a homeobox transcription factor. This transcription factor is found in adults in the cerebellum, kidney, and cerebrum but plays a larger role in development of the fetal head and the female reproductive tract during gestation.
Effects on formation of the future head In mice, Lim-1 acts in the early development of the mesoderm and ectoderm layers of the developing embryo. This transcription factor is induced by the increasing concentrations of Cerebrus, DKK1, and Nodal around day 7-9 in the mouse embryo. Lim-1 contributes to the formation of the anterior portion of the developing head containing the forebrain and midbrain. Research studies have shown that knocking out Lim-1 in mice will cause a range of head deformities, including the complete lack of formation of the head.
Effects on formation of the female reproductive tract
Lim-1 is also essential for the development of the female reproductive tract as it causes the persistence of the mullerian ducts that will eventually develop into the oviducts, uterus, cervix, and vagina. Without the expression of Lim-1, formation of the epithelial and mesenchymal cells of the reproductive tract will not occur. While the ovaries will develop, female mice will develop without a uterus and oviducts.
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