Mice that are homozygous for the targeted mutation are viable, fertile and normal in size.  Homozygotes exhibit a decrease in small fiber density in the small intestine, colon and duodenum, reduced myenteric ganglion cell size, and reduced gut motility.  By two months of age, mice can be identified by eyelid droopiness, crusting around the eye, eyelid thickening and reduced tear production most likely the result of reduced parasympathetic innervation of the lacrimal gland. Parasympathetic neurons in the submandibular salivary gland and the ciliary ganglion are reduced in number, despite apparently normal function.  Otic ganglion cells are reduced in size, but not in number.  This mutant mouse strain may be useful in studies of the enteric, parasympathetic and sensory nervous systems.

This targeted mutation of the neurturin (<i>Nrtn</i>) gene displays reductions in neuron fiber density and neuronal size in the enteric nervous system, reduced gut motility, reduced parasympathetic and sensory innervation and may be useful in studies of the enteric, parasympathetic and sensory nervous systems

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