Altering Shh expression in the gut modifies ECM patterning. Expression of several ECM proteins was examined in chick E8 hindgut (A,E,I,M) and compared with E5 guts cultured for 3 days in the presence of no additive (B,F,J,N), Shh protein (C,G,K,O) or cyclopamine (D,H,L,P). The expression of fibronectin (A-D), collagen I (E-H), collagen IX (I-L) and versican V0/V2 (M-P) in transverse sections through the mid-hindgut is shown. ep, epithelium; NoR, nerve of Remak.