Xpitx3:: a member of the Rieg/Pitx gene family expressed during pituitary and lens formation in Xenopus laevis

Xpitx3 is the Xenopus homologue of the mouse Pitx3 gene and belongs to the family of RIEG/PITX homeobox genes, Here, we report on the embryonic expression of Xpitx3. It is transcribed in the presumptive pituitary already at the open neural tube stage. During further development Xpitx3 is strongly transcribed in the pituitary Anlage, the lens placodes and head mesenchyme, respectively. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.