High impact information on nlz1

• Our data demonstrate that nlz2 functions similarly to nlz1 and define conserved domains essential for nuclear localization, self-association, and corepressor binding in this novel family of zinc-finger genes [1].
• We found a C-terminal domain required for nuclear localization and two conserved domains (the Sp motif and a putative C(2)H(2) zinc finger) required for nlz1 function [1].
• Misexpression of nlz2 in zebrafish embryos disrupted gene expression in the rostral hindbrain, similar to the effect of misexpressing nlz1 [1].
• The zebrafish nlz gene has a rostral expression limit at the presumptive rhombomere (r) 3/r4 boundary during gastrula stages, and its expression progressively expands rostrally to encompass both r3 and r2 by segmentation stages, suggesting a role for nlz in hindbrain development [2].
• To interfere with endogenous nlz function, we generated a form of nlz that lacks the Groucho binding site and demonstrate that this construct has a dominant negative effect [2].

Biological context of nlz1

• This study describes the conserved nlz gene family whose members encode unusual zinc finger proteins [3].

Anatomical context of nlz1

• These data indicate that one function of the nlz gene family is to specify or maintain r4 identity, and to limit r3 and r5 during hindbrain formation [3].
• By the end of gastrulation, noz1 is expressed in the presumptive hindbrain and spinal cord as well as in the forming tailbud [4].

Other interactions of nlz1

• Consistent with a role as a repressor, misexpression of nlz causes a loss of gene expression in the rostral hindbrain, likely due to ectopic nlz acting prematurely in this domain, and this repression is accompanied by a partial expansion in the expression domains of r4-specific genes [2].

References