Summary
UCLA researchers have developed a dual transgenic animal that enables genetic tracing of endothelial cells and their derivatives.
Background
Disturbances in endothelial gene expression contribute to vascular morphogenesis and tumor growth. Over the past century, the mouse has emerged as the premier mammalian model system for genetic research. Its genetic and physiological similarities to humans, as well as the ease with which its genome can be manipulated, make it especially attractive as models for human disease. Thus, mouse models that enable genetic tracing of endothelial cells would be of great use to vascular biologists.
Innovation
UCLA researchers have developed a dual transgenic animal that enables genetic tracing of endothelial cells and their derivatives. Specifically, endothelial cells are labeled with LacZ, and VE-Cadherin, an endothelial-specific promoter, drives Cre-recombinase.
Applications
Use as a model system to investigate endothelial gene expression in the context of either physiological or pathological conditions
Advantages
Endothelial-specific gene recombination ensures that only endothelial cells are labeled with LacZ
State Of Development
The mouse model has been developed, validated, and communicated to the scientific community.