A Novel Mouse Model for Non-Invasive Single Marker Tracking of Mammary Stem Cells In Vivo Reveals Stem Cell Dynamics throughout Pregnancy

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0008035
• Publication Date: 2009-11-24T23:06:05Z
• Authors: Benjamin J. Tiede; Leah A. Owens; Feng Li; Christina DeCoste; Yibin Kang
• Keywords: 0301 basic medicine; Science; Stem Cells; Q; Green Fluorescent Proteins; R; Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental; Cell Separation; Flow Cytometry; Immunohistochemistry; Kinetics; Mice; 03 medical and health sciences; Mammary Glands, Animal; Pregnancy; Medicine; Animals; Humans; Pregnancy, Animal; Female; Luciferases; Research Article

Mammary stem cells (MaSCs) play essential roles for the development of mammary gland and its remodeling during pregnancy. However, precise localization MaSCs in their regulation pregnancy is unknown. Here we report a transgenic mouse model luciferase-based single marker detection vivo that used to address these issues. Single transgene expressing epithelial were shown reconstitute glands while immunohistochemical staining identified basal luminal locations, with preponderance towards position. By quantifying luciferase expression using bioluminescent imaging, able track non-invasively individual mice over time. Using this monitor MaSC dynamics throughout pregnancy, found expand both total number percentage then drop down or below baseline levels after weaning. second round expansion was not as extensive. These findings validate powerful system analysis vivo, which will facilitate future characterization breast cancer.