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Developmental expression of N-acetyltransferases in C57BI/6 mice
M K Mitchell1, B W Futscher, C A McQueen
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Arizona, Tucson 85721, USA.
Drug Metabolism and Disposition: the Biological Fate of Chemicals
|February 4, 1999
Summary
N-acetyltransferases (NATs) are crucial for drug metabolism. This study found differential expression of NAT1 and NAT2 genes in developing mouse embryos, suggesting a role in development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Developmental Biology
- Pharmacogenetics
Background:
- N-acetyltransferases (NATs) are key enzymes in metabolizing arylamine drugs and carcinogens.
- Genetic variations in NAT2 are linked to adult arylamine toxicity.
- Limited data exists on NAT gene expression during embryonic and fetal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prenatal and postnatal expression patterns of NAT1 and NAT2 genes in mice.
- To understand the role of NAT enzymes during embryonic development.
Main Methods:
- RNA isolation from maternal liver, embryonic tissues (gestational days 10, 15, 18), and neonatal liver (day 3).
- Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect NAT1 and NAT2 mRNA.
- Specific primers were used to amplify target gene portions.
Main Results:
- NAT1 and NAT2 mRNAs were detected in the embryo/placental complex at gestational day 10.
- Both NAT1 and NAT2 mRNAs were present in embryos at gestational days 15 and 18.
- NAT2, but not NAT1, was expressed in hepatic tissue at gestational day 18 and neonatal day 3.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrates differential expression of NAT1 and NAT2 genes during mouse embryonic development.
- Suggests a potential role for N-acetyltransferases in developmental processes.
- Highlights distinct temporal and tissue-specific expression of NAT genes during development.
