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Keratin polypeptide expression in mouse epidermis and cultured epidermal cells
1Department of Environmental and Community Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway 08854.
Differentiation; Research in Biological Diversity
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Mouse epidermis keratin expression varies with age and strain. Newborns show more differentiated keratins, while specific keratins depend on mouse strain and vitamin A. Keratinocyte cultures reveal distinct patterns under different calcium conditions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The epidermis relies on keratin proteins for structural integrity.
- Keratin expression is known to change during development and differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate keratin polypeptide expression in adult and newborn mouse epidermis.
- To analyze strain-specific keratin variations and the influence of vitamin A.
- To compare in vivo keratin expression with in vitro keratinocyte cultures.
Main Methods:
- Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to resolve keratin polypeptides.
- Immunoblotting and pulse-labeling to identify synthesized keratins.
- Peptide mapping for keratin characterization.
- Primary keratinocyte culture under varying calcium concentrations.
Main Results:
- Adult mouse epidermis expresses up to 11 distinct keratins (basic Type II and acidic Type I).
- Newborn epidermis shows fewer keratin subunits but more differentiated keratins.
- A specific 61-kDa acidic keratin is exclusive to CF-1 mice and vitamin A-dependent.
- In vitro keratinocyte cultures exhibit altered keratin profiles compared to in vivo, with distinct patterns in low vs. high calcium.
Conclusions:
- Keratin expression in mouse epidermis is complex and varies significantly with age, strain, and vitamin A status.
- In vitro keratinocyte culture conditions influence keratin profiles, suggesting a dynamic regulation of keratin expression.
- These findings highlight the adaptability of keratinocytes and provide insights into epidermal differentiation mechanisms.