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Published on: June 17, 2015
Specific tissue expression and cellular localization of human apolipoprotein M as determined by in situ hybridization
Xiao-Ying Zhang1, Xuan Dong, Lu Zheng
1Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, SuZhou University, ChangZhou, China.
Abstract:
Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is a recently discovered human apolipoprotein predominantly present in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and in minor proportion in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TGRLP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The gene coding for apoM has been detected in all mammal genomes. The function of apoM is unknown yet. In the present study, we demonstrated that apoM is exclusively expressed in a strong manner in adult liver and kidney, and is expressed weakly in fetal liver and kidney as detected with human multiple tissue expression array. Both immunohistochemical staining and apoM mRNA in situ hybridization demonstrated that apoM was exclusively expressed in hepatocytes in human liver and in tubular epithelial cells in human kidney. The present study helps to elucidate the pathophysiological functions of apoM in vivo.
Insights
Apolipoprotein M (apoM), a protein found in HDL, is primarily expressed in adult liver and kidney cells. This study reveals its specific localization, aiding in understanding its in vivo functions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is a recently identified human apolipoprotein.
- It is mainly found in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and in smaller amounts in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TGRLP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
- The physiological function of apoM remains largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression patterns and localization of apolipoprotein M (apoM) in human tissues.
- To provide insights into the potential pathophysiological roles of apoM in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Human multiple tissue expression array was utilized to detect apoM expression.
- Immunohistochemical staining was performed to identify apoM protein localization.
- ApoM mRNA in situ hybridization was employed to determine its cellular and tissue distribution.
Main Results:
- Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is strongly and exclusively expressed in the adult human liver and kidney.
- Expression is weaker in fetal liver and kidney tissues.
- Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization confirmed apoM expression in hepatocytes (liver) and tubular epithelial cells (kidney).
Conclusions:
- Apolipoprotein M (apoM) exhibits a distinct tissue-specific expression profile, predominantly in adult liver and kidney.
- The localization of apoM in hepatocytes and kidney tubular epithelial cells suggests specific roles in these organs.
- Further research into apoM's function in these tissues is warranted to elucidate its pathophysiological significance.
