Targeted Disruption of the PME-1 Gene Causes Loss of Demethylated PP2A and Perinatal Lethality in Mice
2008

Loss of PME-1 Gene Causes Lethality in Mice

Sample size: 128 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez, Donmienne Leung, Scott Ficarro, Eric C. Peters, Benjamin F. Cravatt

Primary Institution: The Scripps Research Institute

Hypothesis

What is the role of PME-1 in the function of PP2A and its physiological significance in vivo?

Conclusion

The study found that the loss of the PME-1 gene leads to perinatal lethality in mice due to a significant reduction in the demethylated form of PP2A.

Supporting Evidence

  • PME-1(−/−) mice showed perinatal lethality.
  • Loss of demethylated PP2A was observed in the nervous system and peripheral tissues.
  • PP2A activity was significantly reduced in PME-1(−/−) tissues.

Takeaway

When a specific gene called PME-1 is missing in mice, they can't survive after birth because a crucial protein called PP2A doesn't work properly.

Methodology

The study involved creating mice that lack the PME-1 gene and analyzing the effects on PP2A levels and activity.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on the effects in mice, which may not fully translate to other species.

Participant Demographics

Mice were used in the study, specifically PME-1(+/+) and PME-1(−/−) genotypes.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0002486

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