Cellular and molecular mechanisms of cleft palate development.

Cleft lip and palate are common craniofacial deformities. The etiology underlying these deformities is complex and multifactorial and they can occur as part of one of many chromosomal syndromes, Mendelian single gene disorders, teratogenic effects, and as yet uncharacterized syndromes. Our paper will provide an overview of the multiple genes and molecular pathways that have been implicated in palatal fusion. We believe that understanding the molecular mechanisms of cleft formation can help clinicians anticipate which patients may have difficulties healing and in the future allow them to make surgical and medical treatment decisions based on genetic information.