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VE‐Cadherin‐Cre‐recombinase transgenic mouse: A tool for lineage analysis and gene deletion in endothelial cells
Author(s) -
Alva Jackelyn A.,
Zovein Ann C.,
Monvoisin Arnaud,
Murphy Thomas,
Salazar Anthony,
Harvey Natasha L.,
Carmeliet Peter,
IruelaArispe M. Luisa
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
developmental dynamics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.634
H-Index - 141
eISSN - 1097-0177
pISSN - 1058-8388
DOI - 10.1002/dvdy.20643
Subject(s) - cre recombinase , biology , genetically modified mouse , transgene , ve cadherin , gene targeting , microbiology and biotechnology , gene , reporter gene , embryonic stem cell , yolk sac , green fluorescent protein , fate mapping , cadherin , gene expression , embryo , genetics , cell
The ability to target gene deletion to a specific cellular compartment via the Cre/loxP system has been a powerful tool in the analysis of broadly expressed genes. Here, we report the generation of a transgenic mouse line in which expression of Cre‐recombinase is under the regulatory control of the VE‐Cadherin promoter. Temporal distribution and activity of the enzyme was evaluated with two independent Cre reporter lines. Histological analysis was performed throughout development and in the adult. Recombination of lox P sites with subsequent expression of β‐galactosidase or GFP was detected as early as E7.5 in endothelial cells of the yolk sac. Progressive staining of the embryonic vasculature was noted from E8.5–13.5; however, more contiguous reporter expression was only seen by E14.5 onward in all endothelial compartments including arteries, veins, and capillaries. In addition, we found Cre activity in lymphatic endothelial cells. Unlike other endothelial‐specific Cre mice, this model showed expression in the adult quiescent vasculature. Furthermore, the constitutive nature of the VE‐Cadherin promoter in the adult can be advantageous for analysis of gene deletion in pathological settings. Developmental Dynamics 235:759–767, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.