Comprehensive characterization of protein 4.1 expression in epithelium of large intestine

Histochem Cell Biol. 2014 Nov;142(5):529-39. doi: 10.1007/s00418-014-1224-z. Epub 2014 Jun 10.

Abstract

The protein 4.1 family consists of four members, 4.1R, 4.1N, 4.1B and 4.1G, each encoded by a distinct gene. All 4.1 mRNAs undergo extensive alternative splicing. Functionally, they usually serve as adapters that link actin-based cytoskeleton to plasma membrane proteins. It has been reported that 4.1 proteins are expressed in most animal cell types and tissues including epithelial cells and epithelial tissues. However, the expression of 4.1 proteins in large intestine has not been well characterized. In the present study, we performed RT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis to characterize the transcripts, the protein expression and cellular localization of 4.1 proteins in the epithelia of mouse large intestine. We show that multiple transcripts derive from each gene, including eight 4.1R isoforms, four 4.1N isoforms, four 4.1B isoforms and six 4.1G isoforms. However, at the protein level, only one or two major bands were detected, implying that not all transcripts are translated and/or the proteins do not accumulate at detectable levels. Immunohistochemistry revealed that 4.1R, 4.1N and 4.1B are all expressed at the lateral membrane as well as cytoplasm of epithelial cells, suggesting a potentially redundant role of these proteins. Our findings not only provide new insights into the structure of protein 4.1 genes but also lay the foundation for future functional studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / deficiency
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / genetics*
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / metabolism*
  • Epithelium / metabolism*
  • Intestine, Large / cytology
  • Intestine, Large / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / deficiency
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics*
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mice, Knockout

Substances

  • Cytoskeletal Proteins
  • Membrane Proteins
  • erythrocyte membrane band 4.1 protein