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Genome-wide expression profiling of mid-gestation placenta and embryo using a 15,000 mouse developmental cDNA
T S Tanaka1, S A Jaradat, M K Lim
1Laboratory of Genetics and DNA Array Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6820, USA.
Summary
Researchers developed a new cDNA microarray to study gene expression in early mammalian development. This method identified novel placenta-specific genes, significantly advancing tissue-specific gene discovery.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- cDNA microarray technology is vital for monitoring gene expression.
- Mammalian developmental studies are limited by a lack of early-stage cDNA collections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a comprehensive cDNA microarray for mammalian development.
- To identify novel genes and analyze expression patterns in early development.
Main Methods:
- Utilized PCR-based cDNA library construction to generate expressed sequence tags (ESTs).
- Derived 52,374 ESTs from pre- and peri-implantation embryos, E12.5 female gonad/mesonephros, and newborn ovary.
- Assembled a microarray of 15,264 unique genes, including 78% novel and 22% known genes.
Main Results:
- Assessed divergence of placental and embryonic gene expression profiles at embryonic day 12.5.
- Identified 720 genes (6.5%) with statistically significant expression differences between placenta and embryo.
- Discovered 61 placenta-specific genes, including a novel prolactin-like protein, increasing known placenta-specific genes fivefold.
Conclusions:
- The developed cDNA microarray is a powerful tool for tissue-specific gene discovery in mammalian development.
- This technology significantly enhances the analysis of mammalian developmental programs and identification of novel genes.