Asymmetry Inside The Symmetry: Mechanisms and Disorders Of Laterality

Abstract

Asymmetry of the left-right (L-R) axis is a feature of vertebrates that is apparent in the viscera and vasculature. An understanding of L-R patterning in human dev elopment is aided by familiarity with key events and important pathways in mammalian embryogenesis.The induction of L-R asymmetry follows the establishment of the anteroposterior (A-P or rostrocaudal) and dorsov entral (D-V) axes and requires the pre-existing midline symmetry to be broken before sidedness is induced via a series of complex, coordinated molecular signaling events. In this review, our aim is to describe the molecular background of this embryological process, and give brief knowledge concerning its clinical consequences.

Keywords

• Heterotaxy, Laterality, Situs anomalies