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Publication Development, Ivanova E. & al.

SOCS2 mutation induces structural and functional changes in mammary gland development.

Lactation is an essential process for mammals. In sheep, the R96C mutation in the SOCS2 (Suppressor Of Cytokine Signaling 2) protein is associated with higher milk production and increased susceptibility to mastitis. To understand the involvement of the R96C mutation in mammary gland development and lactation, we developed a mouse model carrying this mutation (SOCS2KI/KI).

The mammary glands of these virgin mice show a defect in the branching of the epithelial tissue. This phenotype is not compensated for at later stages of mammary development (gestation, then lactation). Mammary epithelial cell subpopulations were altered, with mutant mice having three times more basal cells and fewer luminal cells. The mammary gland of these mice remains functional; however, the mammary epithelial cells contain more lipid droplets and the lipid composition of the milk is altered. In addition, monitoring of mammary gland gene expression in virgin and then pregnant females identified around 3,000 differentially expressed genes. Analysis of the differentially expressed genes showed that multiple biological processes and signalling pathways linked to mitochondrial function and hence fatty acid oxidation are impacted. This suggests mitochondrial dysregulation and elevated oxidative stress in mammary glands. These results have enabled us to refine our knowledge of the role of SOCS2 and more specifically the R96C mutation on mammary gland development and milk production. 

Contact :

Fabienne.Le-Provost@inrae.fr

See also

Mutation of SOCS2 induces structural and functional changes in mammary development
Ivanova E.1, Hue-Beauvais C. 1, Castille J. 1, Laubier J. 1, Le Guillou S. 1, Aujean E.1, Lecardonnel J.1, Lebrun L.1, Jaffrezic F.1, Rousseau-Ralliard D.2,3, Péchoux C. 1, Letheule M.2,3, Foucras G.4, Charlier M. 1, Le Provost F.1
Development. 2024 Mar 15;151(6)
doi: 10.1242/dev.202332.
1 Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
2 Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
3 Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
4 IHAP, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31076, Toulouse, France

Modification date: 16 April 2024 | Publication date: 16 April 2024 | By: GABI