Transcription factor expression during pancreatic islet regeneration

Recent studies by a number of laboratories have identified transcription fa ctors that are involved in pancreatic development. Indeed, marked abnormali ties in pancreatic development result from deficiencies in these molecules, which include, among others, PDX-1, islet-1 (Isl-1), and Pax-6. These stud ies have prompted us to evaluate the expression of Isi-1 and Pax-6 in the p ancreas of the interferon-gamma (IFN gamma) transgenic mouse, which exhibit s new islet growth and expansion of ducts throughout the life of the animal . We have previously demonstrated that PDX-1 is strikingly expressed in the ducts of the IFN gamma transgenic mouse. This latter observation compelled us to examine expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor-3beta (HNF3 beta), w hich mediates PDX-1 gene transcription, in the IFN gamma transgenic pancrea s as well. As a result of these studies, we now demonstrate marked expressi on of these transcription factors in the pancreatic ducts of IFN gamma tran sgenic mice. These data suggest a role for these transcription factors duri ng pancreatic regeneration in the IFN gamma transgenic mouse. (C) 2000 Else vier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.