High impact information on otop1

• Here we show that the zebrafish, Danio rerio, contains a highly conserved gene, otop1, that is essential for otolith formation [1].
• Mutations in a novel gene Otopetrin 1 (Otop1), encoding multi-transmembrane domain protein, result in nonsyndromic otoconial agenesis and a severe balance disorder in mice [1].
• Morpholino-mediated knockdown of zebrafish Otop1 leads to otolith agenesis without affecting the sensory epithelium or other structures within the inner ear [1].
• Mutated otopetrin 1 affects the genesis of otoliths and the localization of Starmaker in zebrafish [2].
• Our data suggest that Otopetrin 1 in zebrafish may be involved in the protein trafficking of components required for formation of biominerals in the ear [2].

References