Multiple developmental roles of Ahnak are suggested by localization to sites of placentation and neural plate fusion in the mouse conceptus

Gene Expr Patterns. 2002 Nov;2(1-2):27-34. doi: 10.1016/s0925-4773(02)00349-0.

Abstract

Ahnak is a gigantic (700 kD) phosphoprotein with a unique structure whose expression and cellular localization are dynamically regulated during cell cycle progression. Here, we report that Ahnak is localized to sites of major morphogenesis during mouse placentation and neurulation. Ahnak was found in: (i) derivatives of trophectoderm, including chorionic ectoderm prior to and during union with the ectoplacental cone, presumptive syncytiotrophoblast cells in the chorionic labyrinth, and giant cells at the trophoblast-uterine interface; (ii) the allantois prior to, during, and after union with the chorion; and (iii) the tips of the neural plate during formation of the neural tube. On the basis of these observations, we suggest that Ahnak may play heretofore unrecognized roles in tissue union during normal mouse development.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Retracted Publication

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ectoderm / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Mice / embryology
  • Neoplasm Proteins / metabolism*
  • Nervous System / embryology
  • Nervous System / metabolism
  • Organ Specificity
  • Placentation / physiology*
  • Pregnancy

Substances

  • Ahnak protein, mouse
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Neoplasm Proteins