Nodal activity in the node governs left-right asymmetry

Nodal activity in the node is discussed relative to its governing of left-right asymmetry. a genetic strategy was used to selectively remove Nodal activity from the node and embryos without it were found not to initiate molecular asymmetry in the left lateral plate mesoderm and to have multiple left-right patterning defects. The study results show that the mouse node is instrumental in initiating left-right axis specification and they show Nodal to be the key regulating morphogen in the process.