< em > Lrig1 < /em > Drives Cryptogenesis and Restrains Proliferation during Colon Development

In this study, we examine the morphological events leading to crypt formation, epithelial cell differentiation, proliferation, and the emergence and expression of a stem and progenitor cell marker Lrig1. Through multicolor lineage tracing, we show Lrig1-expressing cells are present at birth and behave as stem cells to establish clonal crypts within three weeks of life. In addition, we use an inducible. knockout mouse to eliminate Lrig1 and show Lrig1 restrains proliferation within a critical developmental time window, without impacting colonic epithelial cell differentiation. Our study illustrates morphological changes during crypt development and the importance of Lrig1 in the developing colon.PMID:37873577 | DOI:10.1152/ajpgi.00094.2023
Source: American Journal of Physiology. Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology - Category: Physiology Authors: Source Type: research