Characterization of a nap1l1 transgenic reporter in zebrafish.

Nap1l1 gene encodes a tissue specific nucleosome assembly protein and is essential for tissue development. Here, we report the generation and characterization of a nap1l1 transgenic reporter in zebrafish model. We showed that a 5-kilobase (kb) genomic fragment immediately upstream of the nap1l1 gene transcription initiation site is capable of targeting the nucleic enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) expression initially to central nervous system and subsequently to lateral line neuromasts, cardiomyocytes, and paraxial vessels, where the endogenous nap1l1 normally expresses with only a few exception. In adulthood, zebrafish nap1l1 promoter-driving nEGFP is predominantly expressed in lateral line system, liver, and ovary, but not in heart. Therefore, this novel transgenic reporter line, Tg(nap1l1:nEGFP), would be a valuable tool for studying the development and regeneration of lateral line system and also for investigating cardiac development.