The Rxra, retinoid X receptor alpha, gene encodes for a nuclear receptor of retinoic acid. The retinoid X receptors regulate gene expression via both ligand-dependent and ligand-independent mechanisms. These mice carry a targeted mutation for the Rxra gene in which a NEO cassette replaced part of exon 3 and intron 3. Mice that are heterozygous for the targeted mutation are viable and fertile. Homozygous null mice have an embryonic lethal phenotype, failing to develop past embryonic day 15.5 due to congestive heart failure. Abberant non-functional gene product (mRNA) is detected by Northern analysis of homozygous embryos, embryonic day 13.5. Homozygous embryos exhibit impaired placental, eye, cardiac and hepatic (transient delay in fetal erythropopiesis) development as well as subdermal edema. Heterozygotes exhibit cardiac and myocardial defects.

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This Rxra knockout strain is useful in studies of cardiac development, and the role of retinoic acid receptors in cellular processes.

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

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