A new mutant gene that causes preaxial polydactyl in the hindlimbs was found in the Jcl:Wistar -derived strain of rats with fused pulmonary lobes (FRL) at the Laboratory of Reproductive Toxicology at the Institute of Environmental Toxicology . Genetic analysis has revealed that the new mutation is not closely linked with the fpl gene. This strain was established by sib mating (over 20 generations).
Genetic analysis has revealed that the new mutation is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait and is not closely linked with the fpl gene. The causative gene is not identified.
Homozygous mutants have preaxial polydactyly in the hindlimbs and die within the first 2 days after birth. In some cases, phalangeal duplication or bifurcation in digit I with thickening of metacarpal I was also found in the forelimbs, although extra forelimb digits were not detected externally. The pl/pl newborns showed hunchback-like abnormal posture externally and had several associated vertebral abnormalities in varying degrees.