Fucci-G1 insertion partially disrupts Shh expression

ABSTRACT

The Fucci mouse lines are valuable tools for tracing cell cycle stages during development and in postnatal tissues; however, the insertion loci for the transgenes remain unidentified. Here, we report the genomic insertion sites of both the Fucci-G1 and -S/G2/M transgenes, identified through whole-genome sequencing. Interestingly, the Fucci-G1 transgene is located proximal to the Shh lung gut enhancer (SLGE) on chromosome 5. Homozygous Fucci-G1 embryos are perinatal lethal but survive until embryonic day (E)18.5, exhibiting craniofacial and foregut-related defects. Expression of Shh and canonical targets are downregulated in the pharyngeal arches of E11.5 homozygous Fucci-G1 embryos. Furthermore, in situ hybridization analysis showed diminished Shh expression in the pharyngeal and foregut endoderm, consistent with disruptions to SLGE activity. Our results indicate that heterozygous Fucci-G1 mice are suitable for cell cycle studies; however, we caution potential genetic interference when investigating SHH-related pathways.