Reelin plays essential roles in the neuronal migration and cortical layer formation. We generated monoclonal antibodies against Reelin receptors (ApoER2 and Vldlr) and examined their localization in the developing cerebral cortex. Vldlr is localized to the distal portion of leading processes in the marginal zone, whereas ApoER2 is mainly localized to neuronal processes and the cell membranes of multipolar cells in the multipolar cell accumulation zone. These different expression patterns may contribute to the distinct actions of Reelin on migrating neurons during both the early and late migratory stages in the developing cerebral cortex.
Pafah1b1 is one of the downstream molecules of the Reeling signaling. We found that enhanced expression of Pafah1b1 in radially migrating neurons resulted in their over-migration into the marginal zone. Layer distribution of Pafaha1b1-overexpressed neurons shifted more superficially than control neurons.
