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Developmentally regulated expression of Sp1 in the mouse cornea
Hiroshi Nakamura1, Jun Ueda, Joel Sugar
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, 60612, USA.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|October 27, 2005
Summary
Transcription factor Sp1 (Specificity Protein 1) expression in mouse corneas is developmentally regulated, peaking at postnatal day 11 and decreasing after eyelid opening. Light exposure did not significantly alter this Sp1 expression pattern.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The cornea's development and cellular functions are complex processes.
- Transcription factors play crucial roles in regulating gene expression during development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression patterns of transcription factor Sp1 (Specificity Protein 1) in the developing mouse cornea.
- To assess the influence of light on Sp1 expression in the cornea.
Main Methods:
- Utilized immunohistochemical staining and in situ hybridization on mouse embryos and postnatal eyes at various developmental stages.
- Examined Sp1 expression in mice bred under a light/dark cycle versus those bred in constant darkness.
Main Results:
- Sp1 expression was detected early in corneal development (embryonic day 10.5) and was abundant in basal epithelium and keratocytes until postnatal day 11.
- Sp1 levels decreased significantly after eyelid opening (postnatal day 15) and continued to decline.
- Sp1 expression patterns were similar in mice exposed to light or kept in darkness, suggesting light is not a primary regulator.
Conclusions:
- Sp1 expression in the mouse cornea is developmentally regulated.
- These findings provide a foundation for understanding Sp1's role in corneal development and related diseases like keratoconus.