Bcl11bncc−/− and Bcl11b−/− mice exhibit severe cranial and facial synostoses.
BCL11B is expressed in developing craniofacial osteogenic and sutural mesenchyme.
BCL11B restricts premature osteoblast differentiation and mineralization of the skull.
BCL11B prevents ectopic expression of Fgfr2c and Runx2 in sutures.
BCL11B maintains expression of Twist1 in sutures.