Abstract
Reeler mutant mouse is characterized by the derangement of neuron positions in the cerebral cortex. In order to analyse the pathogenesis of the reeler abnormality, we have here analysed the chimera composed of reeler and normal on a half-and half basis judged from the coat color and GPI isozyme pattern. By hematoxylin-eosin staining and Golgi staining, the cerebral cortex was found to be normalized. The cortico-spinal tract neurons retrogradely labelled after injection of horseradish peroxidase into the lumbar cord were situated in layer V (the inner pyramidal layer) in the chimera, as in the normal mouse, whereas in the reeler such neurons were scattered diffusely throughout all levels of the corresponding cortical area.
These observations suggest that reeler mutation does not directly affect the neurons and that abnormalities in process formation of neurons and fiber trajectory are consequential upon malposition of the cell.
