Sonic Hedgehog

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is a member of the hedgehog family of secreted proteins. It plays a critical role in embryonic development, including ranging from cell proliferation and tissue patterning to neuronal differentiation and axon guidance. Shh is also involved in adult organogenesis, tissue homeostasis, and is associated with various pathologies, such as neoplasms, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. In recent years, Shh has become increasingly important in regenerative medicine and has been used in gene therapy, stem cell differentiation, and therapies of various human diseases.