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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
08:13
A Cre-Lox P Recombination Approach for the Detection of Cell Fusion In Vivo
Published on: January 4, 2012
Cre/lox recombination in the lower urinary tract.
Yinqiu Wang1, Piyush Tripathi, Qiusha Guo
1Department of Internal Medicine, Renal Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Genesis (New York, N.Y. : 2000)
|May 6, 2009
Summary
Researchers developed a Tbx18-Cre transgene for precise genetic studies in the lower urinary tract. This tool targets mesenchymal cells, aiding research into urinary tract development and diseases.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
- Urology
Background:
- Tbx18 is a crucial T-Box transcription factor for lower urinary tract development.
- Understanding Tbx18's role requires specific genetic tools for lineage tracing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To generate and characterize a novel Tbx18-Cre bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgene.
- To validate its expression pattern and utility in genetic studies of the urinary tract.
Main Methods:
- Generation of a BAC transgene with Cre recombinase under Tbx18 regulatory control.
- Crossing the Tbx18-Cre transgene with ROSA26R-lacZ reporter mice.
- Analysis of lacZ reporter gene expression to determine Cre activity and cell targeting.
Main Results:
- The Tbx18-Cre transgene demonstrated specific recombination in mesenchymal derivatives of the lower urinary tract, including smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and stromal cells.
- Expression was notably absent in the urothelium and kidney.
- The transgene recapitulated endogenous Tbx18 expression patterns in the urinary system.
Conclusions:
- The Tbx18-Cre BAC transgene is a valuable tool for studying lower urinary tract development, physiology, and diseases.
- Its specific targeting of mesenchymal cells offers precise lineage tracing capabilities.
- Additional expression in other tissues like the epicardium and limb may facilitate broader research applications.
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