Ear Pinna Growth and Differentiation Is Conserved in Murids and Requires BMP Signaling for Chondrocyte Proliferation

The study examines ear pinna development in murid rodents, focusing on the role of BMP signaling, particularly BMP5, in chondrocyte proliferation and cartilage formation. It finds that BMP5 is essential for proper cartilage development, as demonstrated by the Bmp5se/se mouse strain, which shows malformed ears due to impaired BMP5 signaling. The research highlights that neural crest-derived cells contribute to ear structures, and defects in BMP signaling lead to abnormal ear development, including increased adipogenesis in areas lacking cartilage. These findings provide insights into craniofacial tissue development and have implications for understanding congenital ear deformities and potential regenerative therapies.