Rgs4 mRNA expression is decreased in the brain of Fmr1 knockout mouse

In the Fmr1 knockout mice, a model for fragile X mental retardation syndrome, the levels of regulator of G-protein signaling (Rgs) 4 but not Rgs2 mRNA were considerably reduced (65% from control) in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal CA1 region. The expression of Rgs4 was normal in animals lacking a related protein, FXR2P, indicating that the decrease in Rgs4 expression was specific for the absence of FMRP, and suggests a role for FMRP in G-protein signaling.