Expression of TFAP2β and TFAP2γ genes in Xenopus laevis

The embryonic expression patterns of two additional members of the transcription factor TFAP2 family in Xenopus laevis, TFAP2β and TFAP2γ, are described. Both genes share overlapping expression domains with the previously characterized TFAP2α in this species, although differences exist. All three genes are expressed in the neural crest (NC) region at late gastrula to early neurula stages. TFAP2α and TFAP2γ are also expressed in outer, epidermal cells, while TFAP2β is essentially NC-specific. All three are induced by Wnt/β-catenin – BMP signals and all bind to a consensus TFAP2 recognition site from an epidermal keratin gene.