construct.
The expression of kisVDRC.cUa under the control of Scer\GAL44XHand induces semi-lethality. Surviving adults show severe defects in heart morphology (i.e. very low cardiac myofibrillar density, significantly elevated collagen/Pericardin deposition , and significantly reduced numbers of cardioblasts) and function (i.e. as shown by a significant decrease in brain staining after dye injection into the heart cavity), as compared to controls. Larvae also show significantly abnormal heart tube structure, with low cardiac myofibrillar density and significantly elevated collagen (Pericardin) deposition.