Cdx2 regulates endo-lysosomal function and epithelial cell polarity.

ABSTRACT: In contrast to our significant understanding of signaling cascades that determine cell polarity in lower eukaryotic or immortalized cells, little is known about the transcriptional program that governs mammalian epithelial polarization in vivo. Here we show, using conditional gene ablation and three-dimensional tissue culture, that the homeobox transcription factor Cdx2 controls apical-basolateral polarity in mouse enterocytes and human colonic epithelial cells. Cdx2 regulates a comprehensive gene network involved in endo-lysosomal maturation and protein transport. In the absence of Cdx2, defective protein trafficking impairs apical-basal transport and induces ectopic lumen formation. These defects are partially recapitulated by suppression of key apical transport components, Rab11a and Ki

SUBMITTER: Gao N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2885664 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature