Structural and Functional Abnormalities in the Spleen of anmFtz-F1 Gene–Disrupted Mouse

摘要: Abstract The spleen has two main functions. first is to provide a proper microenvironment lymphoid and myeloid cells, whereas the second involves clearance of abnormal erythrocytes. Ad4BP/SF-1, product mammalian FTZ-F1 gene (mFTZ-F1), was originally identified as steroidogenic, tissue-specific transcription factor. Immunohistochemical examination spleens confirmed expression Ad4BP/SF-1 in endothelial cells splenic venous sinuses pulp vein. In mFtz-F1 gene–disrupted (KO) mice, several structural abnormalities were detected spleen, including underdevelopment nonuniform distribution Examination KO fetuses showed failure development certain tubular structures during embryogenesis. These are normally assembled by immunoreactive most likely form vascular system later stages development. Other mice included defects tissue type-IV collagen, laminin, c-kit, vimentin. morphologic associated with decrease proportion hematopoietic although differentiation these not affected significantly. A high number red blood containing Howell-Jolly bodies noted indicating impaired system. We also presence an mRNA-encoding cholesterol side-chain cleavage P450 resembling findings steroidogenic tissues such gonads adrenal cortex. mRNA transcript involved it both normal that regulatory mechanism theP450 different from tissues. Our results indicate lack functional