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Published on: October 10, 2011
Expression pattern of apolipoprotein M during mouse and human embryogenesis
Xiao-Ying Zhang1, Guo-Qing Jiao, Maria Hurtig
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 proportions in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TGRLP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The gene encoding apoM is present in all mammalian genomes. The identity of the apoM gene of human, rat and mouse is over 80%. However, the (patho)physiological functions of apoM are unknown yet. In the present study, we investigated apoM expression patterns during mouse and human embryogenesis. ApoM transcripts were detectable in mouse embryos from day 7.5 to day 18.5. ApoM was expressed at low levels at day 7.5, its expression increased significantly at day 9.7, decreased at day 10.5, and then increased continually up to day 18.5. ApoM-positive cells appeared mainly in liver of day-12 embryos as detected by in situ hybridization. In day-15 embryos, apoM was expressed in both liver and kidney. During human embryogenesis, apoM was mainly expressed in liver and kidney and little was found in small intestine as determined by mRNA array of human fetal normal tissues. ApoM was also detected in stomach and skeletal muscle in early stages of embryogenesis (3-5 months).
Insights
Apolipoprotein M (apoM) expression is significant during mammalian embryogenesis, primarily in the liver and kidney. This study maps apoM gene expression patterns in developing mouse and human embryos.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is a protein found in lipoproteins like HDL, LDL, and TGRLP.
- The physiological roles of apoM remain largely unknown.
- The apoM gene is conserved across mammalian species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression patterns of apolipoprotein M during mouse and human embryogenesis.
- To identify the specific tissues and developmental stages where apoM is expressed.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of apoM transcript detection in mouse embryos from day 7.5 to 18.5.
- In situ hybridization to locate apoM-positive cells in mouse embryos.
- mRNA array analysis of human fetal tissues to determine apoM expression.
Main Results:
- ApoM transcripts were detected throughout mouse embryogenesis, with dynamic expression levels peaking at specific stages.
- In mouse embryos, apoM expression was primarily observed in the liver and later in the kidney.
- In human embryos, apoM was predominantly expressed in the liver and kidney, with lower levels in the small intestine, stomach, and skeletal muscle.
Conclusions:
- Apolipoprotein M exhibits distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns during mammalian embryogenesis.
- The expression of apoM in key organs like the liver and kidney suggests a potential role in embryonic development.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific functions of apoM during development.
