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Reelin expression during embryonic development of the pig brain
Karsten B Nielsen1, Annette Søndergaard, Marianne G Johansen
1Institute of Human Genetics, University of Aarhus, Bartholin Building 1240, Wilhelm Meyers Allé, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. bork@ki.au.dk
BMC Neuroscience
|June 17, 2010
Summary
Pigs exhibit Reelin gene and protein expression patterns similar to humans during brain development. This suggests pigs can serve as a valuable animal model for studying Reelin functions and human neuronal migration disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Reelin is a critical glycoprotein for neuronal organization in mammalian brain development.
- Pigs have a gyrencephalic brain, similar to humans, making them a potential model.
- Understanding Reelin in pigs could help model human neuronal migration disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression patterns and structure of Reelin during pig brain development.
- To assess the suitability of pigs as an animal model for studying Reelin functions.
- To explore the potential for creating a pig model for human neuronal migration disorders.
Main Methods:
- Determined the sequence of pig Reelin mRNA and protein.
- Analyzed Reelin expression levels during key developmental periods.
- Utilized immunohistochemical analysis to localize Reelin expression in the brain.
Main Results:
- Pig Reelin shows high homology to human Reelin.
- Peak Reelin expression coincides with major neurogenesis and neuronal migration periods in pigs.
- Highest Reelin expression was observed in Cajal-Retzius cells, similar to other mammals.
Conclusions:
- Pigs demonstrate conserved Reelin expression patterns, supporting their use as a model.
- The pig serves as a viable alternative model for Reelin function research.
- Manipulating pig Reelin could lead to models for human neuronal migration disorders.
