Overexpression of <i>Nell-1</i>, a Craniosynostosis-Associated Gene, Induces Apoptosis in Osteoblasts During Craniofacial Development

Abstract

We show that Nell-1 expression modulates calvarial osteoblast differentiation and apoptosis pathways. Nell-1 overexpression disrupts these pathways resulting in craniofacial anomalies such as premature suture closure.