Transient over-expression of NGFI-A gene suppresses NGF-induced neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells

Using an inducible gene expression system (Tet-ON system), the role of NGFI -A gene during the neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells was examined. Whe n NGFI-A was transiently overexpressed, no obvious effects on cell prolifer ation or neurite outgrowth were observed. Interestingly, however, NGFI-A ov er-expression resulted in significant retardation in NGF-induced neurite ou tgrowth. Similar suppressive effects were observed also on the v-K-ras-indu ced neurite outgrowth. These results raise the possibility that NGFI-A prot ein may play some negative role in NGF signaling. NeuroReport 11:1001-1005 (C) 2000 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.