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Published on: March 4, 2020
Generation of a Nr2f2-driven inducible Cre mouse to target interstitial cells in the reproductive system†
Paula R Brown1, Martin A Estermann1, Artiom Gruzdev2
1Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, United States.
Abstract:
The orphan nuclear receptor Nr2f2, also known as COUP-TFII, plays important roles in the development and function of multiple organs, including the reproductive system. NR2F2 is expressed in the interstitial cells of both embryonic and adult testes, ovaries, and reproductive tracts. Taking advantage of such unique expression pattern, we have developed a tamoxifen inducible Cre mouse model, Nr2f2-iCreERT2, which specifically and efficiently targets interstitial cells in both male and female reproductive organs across embryonic and adult stages. This model offers a powerful tool for gene knockout studies specifically in the interstitial compartment, without affecting the supporting or germ cells. Additionally, it enables interstitial cell lineage tracing, facilitating the assessment of the interstitial's contribution to non-interstitial cell types during development and differentiation.
Insights
We developed a novel mouse model (Nr2f2-iCreERT2) to precisely study the function of interstitial cells in reproductive organs. This tool enables targeted gene knockout and lineage tracing in these crucial cells.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The orphan nuclear receptor NR2F2 (COUP-TFII) is vital for reproductive organ development and function.
- NR2F2 is uniquely expressed in the interstitial cells of testes and ovaries during embryonic and adult stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a specific genetic tool for investigating NR2F2-expressing interstitial cells in the reproductive system.
- To enable targeted gene manipulation and lineage tracing within the reproductive interstitial compartment.
Main Methods:
- Development of a tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase model (Nr2f2-iCreERT2).
- Utilizing the specific expression pattern of NR2F2 in reproductive interstitial cells.
- Application in gene knockout and lineage tracing studies.
Main Results:
- The Nr2f2-iCreERT2 model specifically and efficiently targets interstitial cells in both male and female reproductive organs.
- This model allows for precise gene knockout in interstitial cells, sparing germ and supporting cells.
- The model facilitates lineage tracing to assess interstitial cell contributions to other cell types.
Conclusions:
- The Nr2f2-iCreERT2 mouse model is a powerful tool for studying interstitial cell biology in the reproductive system.
- This model will advance research into the roles of interstitial cells in reproductive development, function, and differentiation.
