Bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic analysis of dynamic expression patterns of regulator of G-protein signaling 4 during development. II. Subcortical regions.

A large family of regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins modulates signaling through G-protein-coupled receptors. Previous studies have implicated RGS4 as a vulnerability gene in schizophrenia. To begin to understand structure-function relationships, we have utilized bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) methods to create transgenic mice that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of endogenous RGS4 enhancer elements, circumventing the lack of suitable antibodies for analysis of dynamic patterns of expression. This report follows from the accompanying mapping paper in cerebral cortex, with a focus on developmental and mature expression patterns in subcortical telencephalic, diencephalic and brainstem areas. Based on reporter distribution, the data suggest that alterations in RGS4 function will engender a complex phenotype of increased and decreased neuronal output, with developmental, regional, and cellular specificity.