Notch Signalling and Cellular Fate Choices: A Short Review

Abstract

During mammalian central nervous system (CNS) development, an enormous variety of cell types are generated. This cell diversity is due in part to asymmetrical cell division. Asymmetrical segregation of Numb, a cell-determinant protein, can result in the differential activation of the Notch pathway. The Notch pathway defines one of the few fundamental signalling pathways that govern metazoan development. Notch signals link the fate decisions of one cell to those of its neighbours. Notch activation has a profound effect on many aspects of nervous system development. Here we present a brief overview of Notch signalling and reiterate some relevant questions relating to the Notch pathway.