The Sox18Ra-Op allele causes a more severe phenotype than either the Sox18Ra or Sox18Ra-J allele. Green and Mann determined that only approximately 17% of the Sox18Ra-Op/+ heterozygotes are born and survive to wean age. Heterozygotes have a deficiency of vibrissae, a distinguishing feature in utero and usually evident at birth, and can be distinguished at three days of age by their pink skin which, with its delayed coat development, fails to darken like that of wildtype siblings. A paucity of fur is apparent by 9 days of age and persists throughout life. Heterozygotes are smaller in overall size and many of those that die shortly after birth are cyanotic and edematous. Dead pups have glossy skin with red patches that may result from superficial hemorrhages. Homozygotes die by embryonic day 11.5. (Green and Mann, 1961; Mann, 1963.)

These mice carry a spontaneous mutation at the Sox18 locus characterized by a delayed coat development, failure of skin darkening, and paucity of fur.

Typically mice are recovered in 12-16 weeks. Contact Customer Service to place an order or for more information.

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