Role of Asxl2 in Mouse Development and Heart Function
Author Information
Author(s): GBaskind Heather A., Na Lucy, Ma Quanhong, Patel Mayur P., Geenen David L., Wang Q. Tian
Primary Institution: University of Illinois at Chicago
Hypothesis
What are the functions of the Asxl2 gene in mouse development and heart function?
Conclusion
The study suggests that Asxl2 is crucial for proper embryonic development and heart function in mice.
Supporting Evidence
- The Asxl2 gene trap is expressed at high levels in specific tissues including the heart and axial skeleton.
- Approximately half of homozygous Asxl2−/− mice die before birth.
- Asxl2−/− mice display both posterior and anterior transformations in the axial skeleton.
- Mutant mice have enlarged hearts and may have impaired heart function.
- Reduced levels of H3K27me3 in Asxl2−/− hearts suggest compromised PcG activity.
Takeaway
Scientists studied a gene called Asxl2 in mice to see how it affects their growth and heart health. They found that without this gene, the mice had serious health problems.
Methodology
The researchers generated Asxl2 mutant mice using a gene-trap ES cell line and analyzed their development and heart function.
Limitations
The study did not determine the exact time and cause of embryonic loss in Asxl2−/− mice.
Participant Demographics
Mice were used in the study, specifically Asxl2 mutant and control mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0012
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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