We are interested in identifying genes involved in the differentiation and early development of somites in the mouse embryo. To address this, we compared gene expression between these two tissues by microarray analysis using the NIA 15K Mouse Microarray. (Figure 1)

This microarray approach identified a large group of genes transcriptionally regulated in the transition from presomitic mesoderm to somite. We have placed these genes into functional categories based on sequence homology. However, the functions of most of these genes are unknown. (Figure 2)

Currently we are examining the expression patterns of identified genes by quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization. Functional analyses of these genes will be carried out to determine their roles in somite development.

Our complete microarray data set is freely available and can be downloaded as an excel spreadsheet.

The sequence of each clone and additional information on the NIA 15K microarray is available at the NIA Laboratory of Genetics website.

The published description of our microarray analysis and identification of novel target genes expressed is also available in PDF format. (Buttitta et al 2003)