Abstract |
Ataxin-2, the gene product of the Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2) gene, is a protein of unknown function with abundant expression in embryonic and adult tissues. Its interaction with A2BP1/Fox-1, a protein with an RNA recognition motif, suggests involvement of ataxin-2 in mRNA translation or transport. To study the effects of in vivo ataxin-2 function, we generated an ataxin-2 deficient mouse strain. Ataxin-2 deficient mice were viable. Genotypic analysis of litters from mating of heterozygous mice showed segregation distortion with a significant reduction in the birth of Sca-/- females. Detailed macroscopic and microscopic analysis of surviving nullizygous Sca2 knockout mice showed no major histological abnormalities. On a fat-enriched diet, ataxin-2 deficient animals had increased weight gain. Our results demonstrate that ataxin-2, although widely expressed, is not essential in development or during adult survival in the mouse, but leads to adult-onset obesity.
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Authors | Tim-Rasmus Kiehl, Alex Nechiporuk, Karla P Figueroa, Mark T Keating, Duong P Huynh, Stefan-M Pulst |
Journal | Biochemical and biophysical research communications
(Biochem Biophys Res Commun)
Vol. 339
Issue 1
Pg. 17-24
(Jan 06 2006)
ISSN: 0006-291X [Print] United States |
PMID | 16293225
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
- Ataxins
- Nerve Tissue Proteins
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Topics |
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Ataxins
- Female
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Motor Activity
- Nerve Tissue Proteins
(genetics, physiology)
- Obesity
(genetics, physiopathology)
- Organ Specificity
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