Syndetome

Syndetome is a subdomain that occupies the dorso-lateral portion of somite and is comprised of tendon progenitor cells. The syndetome is located between neighboring sclerotome and myotome, at the future site of connection between bone and muscle, and gives rise to the axial tendons of the body. Identification of the syndetome was facilitated by the discovery of the bHLH transcription factor Scleraxis (Scx), which is considered to be a distinct marker of tendon progenitor and differentiated cells. Proper syndetome formation is dependent on signaling from both somitic muscle and cartilage cells.