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Regulatory mutations in CHO cells induce expression of the mouse embryonic antigen SSEA-1

C Campbell, P Stanley

    Cell
    |November 1, 1983
    PubMed

    Insights

    Two Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell mutants, LEC11 and LEC12, express the mouse embryonic antigen SSEA-1 due to regulatory mutations affecting fucosyltransferase genes. These mutants show distinct enzyme activities not present in parental cells or revertants.

    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Biochemistry
    • Genetics

    Background:

    • Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are a common model system in biological research.
    • The mouse embryonic antigen SSEA-1 is a key developmental marker.
    • Understanding mutations in cell lines aids in deciphering gene regulation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the molecular basis of SSEA-1 expression in CHO cell mutants.
    • To identify the specific enzymatic activities associated with SSEA-1 expression.
    • To explore the genetic regulation of fucosyltransferase genes.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized radioimmunoassay with monoclonal antibodies to detect SSEA-1.
    • Analyzed N-acetylglucosaminide alpha(1,3)fucosyltransferase activities in cell extracts.
    • Compared enzyme substrate specificities and products between mutants and parental cells.

    Main Results:

    • LEC11 and LEC12 CHO cell mutants express the SSEA-1 antigen.
    • Parental CHO cells and revertants (LEC11.R9, LEC12.R10) do not express SSEA-1.
    • SSEA-1 expression correlates with the de novo activity of specific N-acetylglucosaminide alpha(1,3)fucosyltransferases.
    • Differences in enzyme substrate specificities and products were observed.

    Conclusions:

    • LEC11 and LEC12 mutants likely arise from regulatory mutations.
    • These mutations affect distinct fucosyltransferase genes.
    • The study provides insights into the genetic control of SSEA-1 expression and fucosylation in CHO cells.

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