Localized expression of the seizure-related gene SEZ-6 in developing and adult forebrains

Despite its initial identification in neurons exposed to the seizure-inducing drug pentylentetrazole (PTZ), the function of the seizure-related gene SEZ-6 remains obscure. Expression analysis indicates specific expression in the adult brain and testis, and the structure of the predicted protein suggests putative roles in cell–cell recognition and signalling. We report here that type I SEZ-6 mRNA is strongly expressed in highly specific regions in the developing forebrain. Specifically, the pattern of SEZ-6 expression is closely tied with the emergence of the neocortical layers and hippocampus, and implies a forebrain-specific role for this gene during development. In the adult hippocampus, SEZ-6 appears to be a CA1-specific regional marker.