Generation and characterization of dickkopf3 mutant mice

Mol Cell Biol. 2006 Mar;26(6):2317-26. doi: 10.1128/MCB.26.6.2317-2326.2006.

Abstract

dickkopf (dkk) genes encode a small family of secreted Wnt antagonists, except for dkk3, which is divergent and whose function is poorly understood. Here, we describe the generation and characterization of dkk3 mutant mice. dkk3-deficient mice are viable and fertile. Phenotypic analysis shows no major alterations in organ morphology, physiology, and most clinical chemistry parameters. Since Dkk3 was proposed to function as thyroid hormone binding protein, we have analyzed deiodinase activities, as well as thyroid hormone levels. Mutant mice are euthyroid, and the data do not support a relationship of dkk3 with thyroid hormone metabolism. Altered phenotypes in dkk3 mutant mice were observed in the frequency of NK cells, immunoglobulin M, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels, as well as lung ventilation. Furthermore, dkk3-deficient mice display hyperactivity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Animals
  • Antigens, Helminth / genetics
  • Antigens, Helminth / immunology
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology*
  • Erythrocytes / pathology
  • Female
  • Immune System / physiology*
  • Immunoglobulin M / blood
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / genetics*
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / immunology
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism*
  • Iodide Peroxidase / metabolism
  • Iodothyronine Deiodinase Type II
  • Lung / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Mutant Strains
  • Pulmonary Ventilation / genetics*
  • Thyroxine / metabolism
  • Triiodothyronine / metabolism

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Antigens, Helminth
  • Dkk3 protein, mouse
  • Immunoglobulin M
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • P-29 antigen
  • Triiodothyronine
  • Iodide Peroxidase
  • Thyroxine