Upper Panel: RNA expression of Dchs1 was analyzed during embryonic gestation (E11.5, E13.5, and E15.5) by section in situ hybridization. At E11.5 Dchs1 RNA (blue staining) expression is observed in the endocardium and mesenchyme of the superior and inferior cushions (sAVC and iAVC, respectively). A gradient pattern of expression is observed at this time point with more intense expression near the endocardium. At E13.5 and E15.5, a similar pattern is observed in the forming anterior and posterior mitral leaflets (AL and PL, respectively). Lower Panel:
Dchs1 protein expression (red) is observed throughout cardiac development in the endothelial cells and interstitial cells of the developing valves. Dchs1 shows asymmetric expression in the valvular interstitial cell bodies around E15.5 (arrowheads). Dchs1 protein is also observed in the epicardium and AV sulcus (arrows). (Red-Dchs1, Green-MF20, Blue-Hoescht).