Tg(Eno2-Hmox1)2Main

A rat heme oxygenase (decycling) 1 cDNA (nucleotide -14 through the poly[A] tail) was placed downstream of a 1.8 kb genomic DNA fragment containing the rat neuron-specific enolase (enolase 2, gamma neuronal) promoter. Homozygous transgenic mice exhibit elevation of Hmox1 mRNA and protein expression and enzyme activity. The increase in mRNA is modest in brain (115% of control level) and robust in spleen (200% of control level); no significant change in Hmox1 mRNA expression is detected in liver, kidney or testis. In situ hybridization and immunohistologic analysis demonstrates elevated Hmox1 expression in various regions of the brain. (J:120240)