부산대학교 도서관

Introduction:Phosphatase and tensin (PTEN) is a multifunctional gene associated with the normal development and physiological function of various tissues including the kidney. However, its role in renal tubular reabsorption function has not been well elucidated. Methods:We generated a renal tubule-specific Ptenknockout mouse model by crossing Ptenfl/fl mice with Ksp-Cretransgenic mice, evaluated the effect of Ptenloss on renal tubular function, and investigated the underlying mechanisms. Results:Ptenloss resulted in abnormal renal structure and function and water retention in multiple organs. Our results also demonstrated that aquaporin-2 (AQP2), an important water channel protein, was upregulated and concentrated on the apical plasma membrane of collecting duct cells, which could be responsible for the impaired water balance in Ptenloss mice. The regulation of Ptenloss on AQP2 was mediated by protein kinase B (AKT) activation. Conclusions:Our results reveal a connection between PTENgene inactivation and water retention, suggesting the importance of PTEN in normal kidney development and function.