Cloning of the homeotic Sex combs reduced gene in Drosophila and in situ localization of its transcripts.

We have extended our `chromosomal walk' in the Antennapedia-complex (ANT-C) by isolating overlapping DNA sequences spanning the chromosomal segment between Antennapedia (Antp) and Deformed (Dfd). The transcription units, homeoboxes and M-repeats were mapped within this region. Four transcription units Antp, fushi tarazu (ftz), Sex combs reduced (Scr) and Dfd contain both a homeobox and an M repeat, whereas at least two additional transcription units, x and z, were found to lack these elements. The Scr locus was identified by deletion mapping. It consists of at least two exonic regions separated by a large intron. The homeobox is located in the 3' exon and is 82% homologous to the one in Antp. Scr encodes a major 3.9-kb RNA. A corresponding cDNA clone was used as a probe for in situ hybridization to sections of various embryonic stages. At gastrula stages Scr+ transcripts accumulate in the posterior head and the anterior thoracic region of the germ band. At later stages a strong accumulation of transcripts is observed in the suboesophageal and the prothoracic ganglion of the ventral nervous system.