Alternative usage of Otx2 promoters during mouse development

Our previous structural analysis of mouse Otx2 transcripts has revealed the existence of three different promoters and suggested that the corresponding mRNAs could exhibit specific expression patterns. Here, we analyze the precise dynamics of their expression throughout mouse development. Their spatial distribution was determined by isoform-specific in situ hybridization and their relative abundance by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Although the three promoters may be used in the same areas, we show that transcription preferentially occurs from the proximal promoter at onset of gene activity in early embryogenesis, and switches to the more distal. one in most of the sites of expression in the adult brain. During gestation, their relative utilization becomes inverted. The third promoter, which shows no activity in embryonic stem cells and is moderately expressed during embryogenesis, is mostly used in specific areas derived from the rostral part of the neural tube.