A targeting vector was designed to replace the C-terminus DNA-binding domain of transcription factor 4 (Tcf4 or E2-2) gene with a neomycin (neo) selection cassette. Homozygotes are born at a low frequency and die within the first week of life. E2-2 is a widely expressed E2A-related helix-loop-helix (HLH) protein required for the generation of normal numbers of pro-B cells in mouse embryos. While homozygous E2-2 mutant embryos are capable of making B cells, they produce only half as many as wildtype. When crossed to mice containing a (Atoh1)-lacZ transgene, &beta;-galactosidase staining is evident in anterior extramural migratory stream (AES) cells which accumulate in the region lateral to the pontine nucleus. The resulting mice exhibit a reduction in size of the pontine nucleus and a lack of migration of neuronal precursors to the region of the pontine nucleus. Mice heterozygous for the mutation are viable, fertile, and normal in size. This strain may be useful for studying B cell development, activation of differentiation of a subset of neural progenitors, and neurodevelopment associated with Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PHS).

Homozygotes for this knockout mutation of the Tcf4 gene are born at a low frequency and die within the first week of life. When still viable, mice have a diminished capacity to generate B cells.

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

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