C-Myc regulates cell size and ploidy but is not essential for postnatal proliferation in liver.

ABSTRACT: The c-Myc protein is a transcription factor implicated in the regulation of multiple biological processes, including cell proliferation, cell growth, and apoptosis. In vivo overexpression of c-myc is linked to tumor development in a number of mouse models. Here, we show that perinatal inactivation of c-Myc in liver causes disorganized organ architecture, decreased hepatocyte size, and cell ploidy. Furthermore, c-Myc appears to have distinct roles in proliferation in liver. Thus, postnatal hepatocyte proliferation does not require c-Myc, whereas it is necessary for liver regeneration in adult mice. These results show novel physiological functions of c-myc in liver development and hepatocyte proliferation and growth.

SUBMITTER: Baena E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1129100 | biostudies-literature | 2005 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature