Identification of novel genetic markers for mouse yolk sac cells by using microarray analyses

The mouse embryonic yolk sac consists of a visceral yolk sac (VYS) and parietal yolk sac (PYS), and may function as a materno-fetal exchange system for nutrients and wastes, and physical protector for the embryo/fetus. The present study was undertaken to characterize gene expression of the VYS and PYS endodermal cells, and to identify their novel genetic markers from microarray data. Apoa4, Lrp2, Fxyd2, Slc34a3 and Entpd2 were predominantly expressed in VYS epithelial cells. Gkn2 and Pga5 were selected as markers for PYS cells. These genetic markers may be useful for characterization of murine yolk sacs during development.