Decision Letter: Lhx2 Is a Progenitor-Intrinsic Modulator of Sonic Hedgehog Signaling During Early Retinal Neurogenesis

The study examined the role of the Lhx2 transcription factor in modulating Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling during early retinal neurogenesis. Researchers found that Lhx2 enhances the responsiveness of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) to Shh signals by regulating co-receptors like Gas1 and Cdon, although it is not essential for Shh signaling. Various experimental methods, including mutants and pharmacological treatments, revealed that Lhx2 acts downstream of Shh signaling to drive retinal development, with Ptch1 inactivation promoting Shh signaling even without Lhx2. Despite some limitations, such as the inability to perform rescue experiments, the study advanced the understanding of Lhx2 as a critical modulator of Shh signaling, influencing retinal development and suggesting potential compensatory mechanisms like Cyclin D1.