GATA4 is essential for jejunal function in mice.

ABSTRACT:

Background & aims

Although the zinc-finger transcription factor GATA4 has been implicated in regulating jejunal gene expression, the contribution of GATA4 in controlling jejunal physiology has not been addressed.

Methods

We generated mice in which the Gata4 gene was specifically deleted in the small intestinal epithelium. Measurements of plasma cholesterol and phospholipids, intestinal absorption of dietary fat and cholesterol, and gene expression were performed on these animals.

Results

Mice lacking GATA4 in the intestine displayed a dramatic block in their ability to absorb cholesterol and dietary fat. Comparison of the global gene expression profiles of control jejunum, control ileum, and GATA4 null jejunum by gene array analysis revealed that GATA4 null jejunum lo

SUBMITTER: Battle MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2844802 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature