Embryonic tenocytes express Olfml2b, a potential direct target of Scleraxis

We identified Olfml2b as a candidate downstream target of the tendon transcription factor Scleraxis (Scx).Olfml2b is expressed in mouse embryonic tenocytes, colocalizes with a tendon marker Mkx.Luciferase assay identified a Scxresponsive element approximately 5 kb upstream of Olfml2b transcription start site.To investigate its function, we generated an Olfml2b knockout mouse.Despite its tendon-specific expression, loss of Olfml2b did not affect embryonic tendon formation or the gross morphology of adult tendons.These findings indicate that Olfml2b is a possible Scxregulated tendon gene but is dispensable for tendon development.Further study is required on its physiological role.