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Distinct roles for S100a8 in early embryo development and in the maternal deciduum
Author(s) -
Baker J.R.,
Jeffery R.,
May R.D.,
Mathies M.,
SpencerDene B.,
Poulsom R.,
Hogg N.
Publication year - 2011
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.22709
Subject(s) - s100a9 , biology , s100a8 , embryo , embryogenesis , microbiology and biotechnology , placenta , embryonic stem cell , immunology , inflammation , gene , fetus , genetics , pregnancy
S100a8 is a cytosolic protein expressed in myeloid cells where it forms a stable heterodimer with another S100 protein family member, S100a9. The S100a9 −/− mouse is viable and phenotypically normal, whereas the S100a8 −/− condition is embryonic lethal. We present evidence that S100a8, without S100a9, has a previously unrecognized role in embryo development between fertilization and the 8‐cell stage at embryonic day (E) 2.5. S100a8 also has a second role in the maternal deciduum, where expression is associated with the vasculature from the E8.5 stage to the formation of mature placenta. Uterine natural killer cells that have a role in vascular remodelling colocalise with the S100a8 vascular expression in the metrial triangle. In inflammatory responses in peripheral tissues, S100a8 is a potent chemoattractant and also an anti‐oxidant. Both roles may be important in the developing placenta. Thus we highlight two new S100a9‐independent roles for S100a8 in early embryo development. Developmental Dynamics 240:2194–2203, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.