Figure 5

Expression and protein distribution of ATRX in the phallus. ATRX mRNA was seen throughout the developing genital tubercle in the male mouse (A, B). Hind limbs and tail were removed to allow clear observation of the phallus (A) or the entire phallus was removed (B,C). mRNA appeared to be more concentrated in the urethral groove on the ventral side of the phallus (A,B). Identical mRNA distribution was seen in the developing tammar phallus (C) again concentrated in the urethral groove. ATRX protein was distributed through cells of the tammar phallus mesenchyme but was concentrated in the urethral plate epithelium, lining the urethral groove (D) and enlarged insert (D). HL - hind limb, T - tail, UG - urethral groove, UPE - urethral plate epithelium. Scale bars; A,B = 1 mm and C,D = 500 μm.