Transcriptome analysis of intestine from alk-SMase knockout mice reveals the effect of alk-SMase

Jiang Zhu1, Lingqi Wang1,2, Zhongwu Guo3

  • 1Medical Laboratory Technology College, Daqing Campus of Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.

Cancer Cell International
|November 9, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study characterized the transcriptome of intestinal alkaline sphingomyelinase (alk-SMase) knockout mice, revealing novel genes and pathways involved in intestinal functions and diseases. The findings provide new insights into alk-SMase

Area of Science:

  • Genomics and Molecular Biology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Intestinal alkaline sphingomyelinase (alk-SMase) plays roles in digestion, ceramide generation, and platelet-activating factor inactivation.
  • Its involvement in cancer inhibition is recognized, but comprehensive gene characterization is lacking.
  • Understanding alk-SMase's functional network is crucial for identifying therapeutic targets.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively characterize the transcriptome of alk-SMase knockout mice.
  • To identify novel genes and functional modules associated with alk-SMase.
  • To gain insights into alk-SMase's role in intestinal biology and disease.

Main Methods:

  • High-resolution RNA sequencing was performed on intestine tissues from alk-SMase knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice.
  • Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and subjected to functional enrichment analysis (DAVID).
  • Integrated protein-protein interaction (PPI) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) network analyses were conducted. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used for validation.

Main Results:

  • 97 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified between KO and WT mice (32 up-regulated, 65 down-regulated).
  • Functional enrichment analysis revealed DEGs are associated with immune response, cell proliferation, and development.
  • Network analysis identified modules significantly related to alk-SMase function, with 2 validated by qPCR.

Conclusions:

  • Genome-wide transcriptome analysis of alk-SMase KO mice provides novel insights into its biological significance.
  • Identified functional modules highlight alk-SMase's involvement in intestinal-related diseases.
  • This study establishes a foundation for further research into alk-SMase's role in gut health and pathology.