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Localization and quantification of Wnt-2 gene expression in mouse mammary development
T A Bühler1, T C Dale, C Kieback
1Department of Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.
Developmental Biology
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Wnt-2 gene expression is detected in developing mouse mammary glands during ductal proliferation. Its RNA levels decrease significantly with pregnancy, unlike other Wnt family members, suggesting a role in early mammary gland development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The Wnt gene family comprises proteins crucial for cell-cell communication in vertebrate development.
- Over 10 Wnt members are known, primarily expressed in developing neural tissues.
- Their role in mammary gland development is an area of active investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression patterns of Wnt-2 during mouse mammary gland development.
- To compare Wnt-2 expression with other Wnt family members (Wnt-5a, -5b) during mammary gland development and pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with degenerate oligonucleotides.
- In situ hybridization.
- Quantitative RT-PCR.
- Northern blot analysis.
Main Results:
- Wnt-2 transcripts were detected in the mammary glands of virgin mice (4-6 weeks old), coinciding with ductal proliferation.
- Wnt-2 expression was localized to the basal layer of ducts and end bud cells.
- Wnt-2 RNA levels decreased 10- to 40-fold upon the onset of pregnancy and remained low during gestation and lactation.
- In contrast, Wnt-5a and Wnt-5b showed increased expression during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Confirms differential expression of Wnt gene family members during mammary gland development.
- Suggests Wnt-2 plays a role in pattern formation during early mammary gland development.
- Highlights distinct roles for different Wnt members in mammary gland physiology.