Molecular cloning and expression pattern of the DjStag gene in the planarian Dugesia japonica during embryonic development
We examined STAG-related gene (DjStag) expression in the planarian Dugesia japonica. This species is common in Far Eastern countries. The DjStag cDNA includes 1362 bp and contains a 489-bp open reading frame corresponding to a deduced protein of 162 amino acids, with a 170-bp 5'-UTR and a 703-bp 3'-UTR. Phylogenetic analysis showed that DjStag is an STAG/STAG-like member. We examined the expression pattern of DjStag in this planarian during embryonic development by whole-mount in situ hybridization.