Mouse Mef2b gene: unique member of MEF2 gene family

The myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) gene family, which belongs to the MADS [MCM1, agamous, deficiens, serum response factor (SRF)] superfamily, is thought to play an important role in differentiation of myocytes, including cardiomyocytes. To better understand the mouse Mef2 gene family, the mouse Mef2b gene, which was found to be expressed in undifferentiated embryonal cells, was characterized. The Mef2b gene was found to be more than 30 kb in length, consisting of 11 exons. Eight exons correspond to coding regions and the remaining 3 exons for the 5' part are alternatively used. Two internal exons are subject to alternative splicing, resulting in production of four subtypes of mouse MEF2B peptides. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and inter-specific backcross analysis identified the Mef2b gene locus. Mef2b gene was expressed in heart or skeletal muscle of early mouse embryo, but not in those of adult mouse. Functionally, mouse MEF2B did not exhibit DNA binding with the MEF2 consensus element in vitro, but did cause transcriptional activation of the MEF2 element, although it was less effective than human MEF2B. Based on these results, mouse MEF2B seems to have a unique character, distinct from other MEF2 family members.