“…Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4) is the earliest secreted signalling molecule, detected at 8 . 5 dpc, followed by a second signal, fibroblast growth factor 8 (Fgf8) that activates the key regulatory genes Lhx3 and Lhx4, essential for the development of the pouch rudiment into a definitive pouch structure (Treier & Rosenfeld 1996, Ericson et al 1998, Sheng & Westphal 1999. Signalling molecules from the infundibular area (Bmp4, Fgf8, Fgf4, Nkx2.1, Wnt5a) as well as ventral signals from the oral ectoderm (Sonic Hedgehog, Shh), surrounding mesenchyme (Bmp2, Indian hedgehog IHH, Chordin) and the pouch itself (Bmp2, Wnt4) create a network of signalling gradients that is important for morphogenesis during early pituitary development (Dasen & Rosenfeld 2001).…”