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A Binary Genetic Approach to Characterize TRPM5 Cells in Mice
Soumya Kusumakshi1, Anja Voigt2, Sandra Hübner2
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Saarland, School of Medicine, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
Chemical Senses
|May 6, 2015
Summary
Researchers developed a new TRPM5-IRES-Cre mouse model to study TRPM5 expression in taste and extra-oral tissues. This tool aids in visualizing and manipulating TRPM5-expressing cells for future research.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Sensory Biology
Background:
- Transient receptor potential channel subfamily M member 5 (TRPM5) is crucial for taste signaling.
- TRPM5 expression extends beyond taste receptor cells, but its function in extra-gustatory tissues remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a genetic tool for visualizing and manipulating TRPM5-expressing cells in mice.
- To investigate the expression patterns of TRPM5 in various tissues.
Main Methods:
- Generation of a TRPM5-IRES-Cre knock-in mouse model.
- Utilizing a τGFP transgene for TRPM5 expression reporting.
- Validation of TRPM5 expression using a newly developed anti-TRPM5 antiserum.
Main Results:
- TRPM5 expression was confirmed in taste bud cells (vallate, foliate, fungiform papillae) and palate.
- TRPM5 expression was detected in extra-oral tissues, including the septal organ of Masera.
- In the olfactory epithelium, TRPM5 expression was observed in short microvillar cells, but not in a previously reported second cell population.
Conclusions:
- The novel TRPM5-IRES-Cre mouse strain is a valuable genetic tool.
- This tool will facilitate in vivo studies and tissue-specific manipulation of TRPM5-expressing cells.
- Further research can now explore the functions of TRPM5 in diverse cellular contexts.
