Characterization and expression of the mouse pregnant specific uterus protein gene and its rat homologue in the intestine and uterus

The pregnant specific uterus protein gene (Psup) is a novel mouse gene expr essed in pregnant uterus. This paper describes the identification and expre ssion of the rat homologue of Psup. The gene is highly expressed in the duo denum. Expression decreases in a proximal-distal gradient in the small inte stine and was not detected in the cecum and colon. The pattern of expressio n in the mouse was similar. Expression of Psup in the mouse was localized t o the epithelial cells in the intestine and pregnant uterus by in situ hybr idization. The data show tissue-specific expression of Psup. (C) 2000 Elsev ier Science B.V. All rights reserved.