Enhancer DNA Sequence from Zebrafish Can Induce Targeted Heart Regeneration in Mice

This very interesting work involves identifying enhancer DNA sequences that regulate regeneration in an exceptionally regenerative species, such as zebrafish, and introducing these sequences into mammals via gene therapy. The researchers find a sequence that can be used to regulate expression of genes that drive heart regeneration following injury, a desirable goal given that mammalian hearts regenerate poorly. Zebrafish are capable of scarless healing of heart injuries, and connecting the zebrafish enhancer to mammalian growth genes can improve regeneration, by expressing these genes at the appropriate time in the context of repair of injury. Researchers borrowed a segment of zebrafish DNA that they call a TREE, tissue regeneration enhancer element. TREEs are a family of gene enhancers included in the genome that are responsible for sensing an injury and orchestrating the activity of repair-related genes for reconstruction in a specific place. These enhancers also can shut off gene activity as healing is completed. These regulatory elements have been found in fruit flies, worms, and mice as well as the zebrafish. "We probably have them too, but it's just easier for us to find them in zebrafish and ask if they work in mammals." About 1,000 nucleotides long, these enhancer sequences are bristling with recognition sites for different factors and stimuli to attach and change gene activity. "We don't fully understand how they do this and what they're truly respond...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs