Expression of AP-1 (c-fos/c-jun) in developing mouse corneal epithelium

Abstract

Background: Activator protein-1 (AP-1) is a ubiquitous transcription factor which is believed to modulate cell behaviors such as proliferation and differentiation during wound healing and embryonic tissue morphogenesis. AP-1 consists of Fos family and Jun family proteins.

Methods: We examined expression pattern of c-fos mRNA and c-Fos protein in developing mouse cornea. Expression of c-jun mRNA and c-Jun protein were also examined for comparison.

Results: While no c-fos mRNAs were detected on embryonic day (E) 12.5, mRNA for c-fos was detected from E14.5 until postnatal day (P)14. The mRNAs for c-jun were also detected, although the temporal expression patterns differed. c-Fos-immunoreactive nuclei were present from E14.5 through P10 and c-Jun-immunoreactive nuclei were detected from E14.5 through P3.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that AP-1 ( c-fos/c-jun) transcription factor may play a role in the development and maturation of the corneal epithelium in mice.