Fig. 2.

Gene expression analysis reveals dynamic expression of epithelial markers during lacrimal gland development. All samples were normalized to E14 lacrimal glands unless otherwise indicated. (A) qPCR analysis of acinar cell markers indicates early expression of Sox10, and gradual acquisition of Aqp5 and Mist1. Levels of Ltf, a marker of mature acini, increased steadily as mice aged. We found Lyz1 and Lyz2, previously considered to be produced by adult acinar cells, were expressed early but levels were reduced over time. (B) Krt19 (normalized to 8-week lacrimal glands) was robustly expressed early in lacrimal gland development but decreased at later stages, whereas Nkcc1 displayed variable and dynamic expression until adult stages. (C) Myoepithelial markers Krt5 and Krt14 (normalized to 16-week lacrimal glands) peaked at P1 and steadily decreased at later stages. All qPCR experiments were completed in biological triplicates (data are mean±s.e.m.).