Rapid functional dissection of genetic networks via tissue-specific transduction and RNAi in mouse embryos.

ABSTRACT: Using ultrasound-guided in utero infections of fluorescently traceable lentiviruses carrying RNAi or Cre recombinase into mouse embryos, we have demonstrated noninvasive, highly efficient selective transduction of surface epithelium, in which progenitors stably incorporate and propagate the desired genetic alterations. We achieved epidermal-specific infection using small generic promoters of existing lentiviral short hairpin RNA libraries, thus enabling rapid assessment of gene function as well as complex genetic interactions in skin morphogenesis and disease in vivo. We adapted this technology to devise a new quantitative method for ascertaining whether a gene confers a growth advantage or disadvantage in skin tumorigenesis. Using alpha1-catenin as a model, we uncover new insights into it

SUBMITTER: Beronja S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2911018 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature