bfb, a novel ENU-induced blebs mutant resulting from a missense mutation in Fras1

PLoS One. 2013 Oct 15;8(10):e76342. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076342. eCollection 2013.

Abstract

Fras1 is an extracellular matrix associated protein with essential roles in adhesion of epithelia and mesenchyme during early embryonic development. The adhesive function of Fras1 is achieved through interaction with a group of related proteins, Frem 1-3, and a cytoplasmic adaptor protein Grip1. Mutation of each of these proteins results in characteristic epithelial blistering and have therefore become known as "blebs" proteins. Human Fraser syndrome presents with a similar phenotype and the blebs mice have been instrumental in identification of the genetic basis of Fraser syndrome. We have identified a new ENU-induced blebs allele resulting from a novel missense mutation in Fras1. The resulting mouse strain, blood filled blisters (bfb), presents with a classic blebs phenotype but does not exhibit embryonic lethality typical of other blebs mutants and in addition, we report novel palate and sternal defects. Analysis of the bfb phenotype confirms the presence of epithelial-mesenchymal adhesion defects but also supports the emerging role of blebs proteins in regulating signalling during organogenesis. The bfb strain provides new opportunities to investigate the role of Fras1 in development.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Extracellular Matrix Proteins / chemistry
  • Extracellular Matrix Proteins / genetics*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Mutagenesis*
  • Mutation, Missense*
  • Organogenesis / genetics
  • Phenotype

Substances

  • Extracellular Matrix Proteins
  • Fras1 protein, mouse

Grants and funding

This work was funded by NHMRC Australia grant 1002660. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.