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The expression and localization of serine proteinase inhibitor PI-6 mRNA in developmental and ischemic mouse brain
N Nakaya1, M Nishibori, Z Wang
1Department of Pharmacology, Okayama University Medical School, Japan.
Abstract:
A serine proteinase inhibitor, PI-6, is a member of the serine proteinase inhibitor (serpin) superfamily. In the present study, we investigated the developmental expression of PI-6 in the mouse brain and the effect of experimental ischemia on the expression of PI-6 in the adult brain. Northern blot analysis showed a high level of expression of PI-6 mRNA in brain stem and diencephalon as compared with other regions in the adult brain. The expression of PI-6 mRNA in the whole brain was increased gradually until 11 days after birth and was decreased again in the adult brain. In situ hybridization analysis revealed that the mRNA was localized in pyramidal cell layer of the post-natal hippocampus, especially in CA3 region, and in layer V of the cerebral cortex. In the brain stem, two specific motor nuclei, the facial nucleus and the motor nucleus of trigeminal nerve, which are important to active feeding, were strongly positive for PI-6 mRNA. Brain ischemia induced by bilateral ligation of the common carotid artery led to an increase in PI-6 mRNA expression in the whole brain, accompanied by the degeneration of hippocampal pyramidal cells. These results indicate distinct temporal and spatial expression of PI-6 in the mouse brain and suggest the involvement of PI-6 in the maturation of neurons and degenerative and regenerative processes.
Insights
Serine proteinase inhibitor PI-6 shows distinct developmental and spatial expression in the mouse brain. Its expression increases with ischemia, suggesting roles in neuronal maturation and repair.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- PI-6 is a serine proteinase inhibitor belonging to the serpin superfamily.
- Understanding PI-6 expression is crucial for comprehending brain development and response to injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental expression patterns of PI-6 in the mouse brain.
- To examine the impact of experimental ischemia on PI-6 expression in adult mouse brains.
Main Methods:
- Northern blot analysis to quantify PI-6 mRNA levels across brain regions and developmental stages.
- In situ hybridization to determine the precise cellular localization of PI-6 mRNA.
- Induction of experimental ischemia via bilateral common carotid artery ligation.
Main Results:
- PI-6 mRNA expression is highest in the brain stem and diencephalon in adult mice.
- PI-6 mRNA levels peak around 11 days post-birth and decline in adults.
- PI-6 mRNA is localized in the hippocampus (CA3 region) and cerebral cortex (layer V), and specific motor nuclei in the brain stem.
- Ischemia significantly increased PI-6 mRNA expression and caused hippocampal pyramidal cell degeneration.
Conclusions:
- PI-6 exhibits specific temporal and spatial expression profiles in the developing and adult mouse brain.
- PI-6 is potentially involved in neuronal maturation, as well as degenerative and regenerative processes following ischemic injury.