RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Positive Feedback Regulation of fzd7 Expression Robustly Shapes Wnt Signaling Range in Early Heart Development JF bioRxiv FD Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory SP 2021.09.12.458649 DO 10.1101/2021.09.12.458649 A1 Yamamoto, Takayoshi A1 Kambayashi, Yuta A1 Afouda, Boni A1 Otsuka, Yuta A1 Giuraniuc, Claudiu A1 Michiue, Tatsuo A1 Hoppler, Stefan YR 2021 UL http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2021/09/12/2021.09.12.458649.abstract AB Secreted molecules called morphogens govern tissue patterning in a concentration-dependent manner. However, it is still unclear how reproducible patterning can be achieved with diffusing molecules, especially when patterning differentiation of a thin region. Wnt is a morphogen that organizes cardiac development; especially Wnt6 patterns the cardiogenic mesoderm to induce differentiation of a thin pericardium in Xenopus. It is, however, unclear how Wnt6 can pattern such a thin tissue. In this study, we reveal that a Wnt receptor, frizzled7, is expressed in a Wnt-dependent manner in the prospective heart region, and that this receptor-feedback is essential for shaping a steep gradient of Wnt. In addition, the feedback imparts robustness against fluctuations of Wnt ligand production and allows the system to reach a steady state quickly. We also found a Wnt antagonist sFRP1, which is expressed at the opposite side of Wnt source, accumulates on a novel type of heparan sulfate (HS), N-acetyl-rich HS, which is highly presented in the outer of cardiogenic mesoderm, achieving local inhibition of Wnt signaling by restricting sFRP1 spreading. These two intricate regulatory systems restrict Wnt signaling and ensure reproducible patterning of a thin pericardium tissue.Competing Interest StatementThe authors have declared no competing interest.WWnt6SsFRP1WSWnt6-sFRP1HHeparan sulfateSHsFRP1-Heparan sulfateWSHWnt6-sFRP1-Heparan sulfateRFzd7WR2Wnt6-Fzd7