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Human MUC1 mucin: a potent glandular morphogen.
M J Hudson1, G W Stamp, K S Chaudhary
1Department of Histopathology, Imperial College, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK.
The Journal of Pathology
|July 6, 2001
Summary
Human MUC1 mucin influences epithelial cell shape and tissue structure. This study shows MUC1 expression alters cell organization, suggesting a role in both normal development and cancer progression.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Human MUC1 mucin is a transmembrane glycoprotein found in glandular epithelia.
- MUC1 expression patterns change during embryonic development and are altered in carcinomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MUC1 mucin in epithelial morphogenesis.
- To determine if MUC1 expression influences cell behavior and tissue architecture.
Main Methods:
- Full-length MUC1 cDNA was transfected into murine mammary adenocarcinoma (410.4) and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells.
- MUC1 expression was confirmed using Western blotting, FACS analysis, and immunohistochemistry.
- Morphogenesis was assessed in 3D type I collagen gels, and cell migration was evaluated on collagen-coated surfaces.
Main Results:
- MUC1-expressing clones exhibited altered morphogenesis compared to control cells.
- 410.4 cells formed complex branching structures, while MDCK cells formed elongated tubules.
- MUC1 expression correlated with reduced cellular cohesion and enhanced migration, except in one low-expression clone.
Conclusions:
- MUC1 expression stimulates significant morphogenetic changes in distinct epithelial cell lines.
- These findings suggest MUC1 plays a role in altering tissue architecture during normal embryonic development and in cancer.