NONOVERLAPPING EXPRESSION OF CX43 AND CX26 IN THE MOUSE PLACENTA AND DECIDUA - A PATTERN OF GAP JUNCTION GENE-EXPRESSION DIFFERING FROM THAT IN THE RAT

We characterized the expression of two gap junction genes (Cx26 and Cx 43) in the mouse decidua and placenta. In the decidua, in situ hybridi zation analysis and immunostaining studies revealed a high level of Cx 43 expression. In contrast, Cx26 expression was not detected. Analysis of the placenta revealed that both Cx43 and Cx26 transcripts are expr essed, but in nonoverlapping cell populations. Cx26 transcripts were o bserved only in the labyrinthine trophoblast layer of the placenta, a tissue of ectoplacental cone derivation. In contrast, no Cx43 transcri pts were found in the placenta proper, but only in the maternally deri ved decidual cap covering the placenta. These results, in conjunction with previous observations in the mouse and rat, indicate that there m ay be species-specific differences in the pattern of Cx43/Cx26 express ion in the placenta and decidua. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.