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Calcium binding protein (calbindin-D28k) gene expression in the developing and aging mouse cerebellum
A M Iacopino1, W B Rhoten, S Christakos
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey/New Jersey Medical School, Newark 07103-2714.
Brain Research. Molecular Brain Research
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Calbindin-D28k (CaBP28k) expression in the mouse cerebellum rises during development, peaking early, then declines with age. This suggests CaBP28k is crucial for Purkinje cell maturation and maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Calbindin-D28k (CaBP28k) is a calcium-binding protein found in the cerebellum.
- Its role in Purkinje cell development and aging is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental and aging patterns of Calbindin-D28k (CaBP28k) gene and protein expression in the mouse cerebellum.
- To correlate CaBP28k expression with Purkinje cell maturation and maintenance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized slot and Northern blot for mRNA analysis.
- Employed Western blot and radioimmunoassay (RIA) for protein quantification.
- Conducted in situ studies (immunocytochemistry and hybridization cytochemistry) on mouse cerebellar tissue from birth to 120 weeks.
Main Results:
- CaBP28k mRNA and protein levels showed a significant increase from birth, peaking around postnatal week 2.
- Expression declined to lower steady-state levels by weeks 4-8 and further reduced to birth levels by week 120.
- In situ analysis confirmed a correlation between CaBP28k mRNA levels and protein localization in Purkinje cells.
Conclusions:
- CaBP28k expression in the mouse cerebellum follows a distinct developmental trajectory.
- The observed expression pattern supports a critical role for CaBP28k in Purkinje cell maturation and long-term maintenance.