Gene expression profiles in a transgenic animal model of fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited form of mental retardation. Although this syndrome originates from the absence of the RNA-binding protein FMRP, the molecular mechanisms underlying the cognitive deficits are unknown. The expression pattern of 6789 genes was studied in the brains of wild-type and FMR1 knockout mice, a fragile X syndrome animal model that has been associated with cognitive deficits. Differential expression of more than two-fold was observed for the brain mRNA levels of 73 genes. Differential expression of nine of these genes was confirmed by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and by in situ hybridization. In addition to corroborating the microarray data, the in situ hybridization analysis showed distinct spatial distribution patterns of microtubule-associated protein 2 and amyloid beta precursor protein. A number of differentially expressed genes associated with the fragile X syndrome phenotype have been previously involved in other memory or cognitive disorders.