Tuft Cell Regulation of miRNAs in Pancreatic Cancer
Abstract
To better understand the role of tuft cells in the pancreas and to define their effects on the pancreatic body as well as the initiation of pancreatic cancer. Tuft cells are present in the hollow organs of the digestive and respiratory tracts. They are characterized by long and blunt microvilli with prominent rootlets and by a well-developed tubulovesicular system in the supranuclear cytoplasm. Recent reports suggest that tuft cells may act as mechanoreceptors and are involved in chemosensensing of the microenvironment. With the successful deletion of Dclk1 throughout the pancreatic ducts, we can begin characterization, which extends our understanding of the role tuft cells play within ducts and their broader effects on the overall pancreatic microenvironment. With the initial phase ductal specific KRAS-mutation now finished, we will soon be able to examine the role of ductal cells play in the initiation of neoplastic changes (via PDX-1-Cre). Then once completed in year two, the Pdx-1-Cre;Dclk1flox/flox;KRASLSL-G12D, which removes Dclk1 expression from tuft cells and possibly the tuft cells as a whole, will dramatically extend the knowledgebase for the role of tuft cells in pancreatic neoplasia. These finding could very well provide the basis for the development of novel chemotherapeutic drugs targeting these specialized cells.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA602496
Entities
People
- Courtney W. Houchen
Organizations
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center