Developmentally regulated expression of the murine ortholog of the potassium channel KIR4.2 (KCNJ15)

The gene KIR4.2 (K+ inwardly rectifying channel 4.2) has been recently iden tified in the Down syndrome Chromosome Region 1. We have cloned the mouse o rtholog of KIR4.2 and characterized its expression pattern. In situ hybridi zation showed a restricted and developmentally regulated pattern of express ion. The expression is starting at E12.5 and expands at E14.5 in different tissues and organs, which may be affected in Down syndrome: heart, thymus, thyroid gland, and perichondrium. At E17.5, additional epithelia (kidney, b ladder, stomach, lung) expressed also strongly the gene. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd All rights reserved.