Homozygotes: A targeting vector was designed to insert a neomycin resistance (neo) cassette into exon 5 of the ATPase, Ca++ transporting, ubiquitous (Atp2a3 or Serca3) gene, abolishing gene function. Serca3 is a Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase which is expressed in endothelial cells, in epithelial cells of trachea, intestine, and
salivary glands, and in platelets, mast cells, and lymphocytes. In these mice, acetylecholine (Ach)-induced aortic relaxation is reduced, and Ach-responsive Ca2+ stores, along with intracellular Ca2+ signaling, are diminished. These Serca3-/-mice do, however, exhibit normal basal blood pressure, glucose tolerance, and insulin secretion. These mice may be useful for studying endothelial Ca2+ signaling and aortic smooth muscle relaxation/contraction.

Heterozygote: Heterozygous mice are viable, fertile, and normal in size. They exhibit normal growth, and are phenotypically similar to wildtype mice

These ATPase, Ca++ transporting (Atp2a3 or Serca3) knockout mice exhibit reduced acetylecholine (Ach)-induced aortic relaxation and diminished Ach-responsive Ca2+ stores. These mice may be useful for studying endothelial Ca2+ signaling and aortic smooth muscle relaxation/contraction.

This strain is hosted by NIH's MMRRC, which partners with JAX for the distribution of this and other strains. For additional information and to purchase, please visit the MMRRC site.