Hedgehog

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Hedgehog (Medicine)

Hedgehog (/ˈhɛdʒˌhɒɡ/), in the context of medicine, refers to a family of proteins that play key roles in animal development and disease. The name "hedgehog" was coined by scientists due to the spiky appearance of the protein under a microscope, which reminded them of a hedgehog's spines.

Etymology

The term "hedgehog" is derived from the Middle English words "heyghoge" and "hedgehogge". The name was given to the protein family due to its spiky appearance under a microscope, which is reminiscent of a hedgehog's spines.

Function

Hedgehog proteins are involved in a variety of processes during embryonic development, including the growth of digits on limbs and the organization of the brain. They also play a role in maintaining adult stem cells in many tissues, including the brain, lung, and gastrointestinal tract.

Related Terms

  • Sonic hedgehog: A protein that is a member of the hedgehog family. It plays a crucial role in vertebrate organogenesis, such as growth of digits on limbs and organization of the brain.
  • Indian hedgehog: Another member of the hedgehog protein family, which is involved in bone growth and differentiation.
  • Desert hedgehog: A protein that is a member of the hedgehog family. It is involved in the development of the peripheral nervous system and the formation of the secondary palate.

Diseases Associated with Hedgehog Proteins

Abnormalities in hedgehog signaling pathways can lead to diseases such as basal cell carcinoma, medulloblastoma, and holoprosencephaly.

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