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Functional analysis of the tumour suppressor gene PTEN in murine B cells and keratinocytes

A Suzuki1, T Sasaki, T W Mak

  • 1Department of Molecular Biology, Akita University School of Medicine, Hondo 1-1-1, Akita 010-8543, Japan. suzuki@med.akita-u.ac.jp

Biochemical Society Transactions
|March 30, 2004
PubMed

Insights

The phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) protein is crucial for regulating B cells and skin cells. PTEN mutations in mice led to autoimmune diseases and skin abnormalities, highlighting its regulatory roles.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The PTEN/PI3K signaling pathway is vital in cellular functions.
  • Dysregulation of PTEN is implicated in various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.
  • Understanding PTEN's in vivo roles requires tissue-specific investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the in vivo functions of PTEN in B lymphocytes and keratinocytes.
  • To investigate the impact of Pten gene deletions on immune cell populations and skin development.
  • To determine PTEN's role as a regulator in specific cell types.

Main Methods:

  • Generation of mice with null or tissue-specific Pten gene deletions.
  • Analysis of B cell populations (B1a, B2, marginal zone, follicular) and serum autoantibodies.
  • Histopathological examination of skin and esophageal epithelia, and assessment of tumor development.

Main Results:

  • B cell-specific Pten deletion resulted in increased autoantibodies, elevated B1a cells, expanded marginal zone B cells, and reduced follicular B cells.
  • Defective immunoglobulin class switch recombination and impaired activation-induced cytidine deaminase induction were observed in mutant B cells.
  • Keratinocyte-specific Pten deletion caused epidermal hyperplasia, hyperkeratosis, accelerated skin morphogenesis, and high early mortality due to esophageal issues.
  • Mutant mice developed spontaneous skin tumors, with accelerated onset upon chemical induction.

Conclusions:

  • PTEN is a critical regulator of B cell homeostasis and function.
  • PTEN plays a significant role in keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation, and skin development.
  • PTEN's tumor-suppressive function is evident in both immune and epithelial cells.

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