ABSTRACT
C1QL1 is expressed in a subset of cells in the brain and likely has pleiotropic functions, including the regulation of neuron-to-neuron synapses. Research progress on C1QL proteins has been slowed by a dearth of available antibodies. Therefore, we created a novel knock-in mouse line in which an HA-tag is inserted into the endogenous C1ql1 locus. We examined the entire brain, identifying previously unappreciated nuclei expressing C1QL1, presumably in neurons. By total numbers, however, the large majority of C1QL1-expressing cells are of the oligodendrocyte lineage. Subcellular immunolocalization of synaptic cleft proteins is challenging, so we developed a new protocol to improve signal at synapses. Lastly, we compared various anti-HA antibodies to assist future investigations using this and likely other HA epitope-tagged alleles.
ABSTRACT
Prostate cancer (PC) is a commonly diagnosed malignancy in men and is associated with high mortality rates. Current treatments for PC include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, recent advances in targeted delivery systems have yielded promising new approaches to PC treatment. As PC epithelial cells express high levels of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) on the cell surface, new drug conjugates focused on PSMA targeting have been developed. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate posttranscriptional gene expression in cells and show excellent possibilities for use in developing new therapeutics for PC. PSMA-targeted therapies based on a miRNA payload and that selectively target PC cells enhances therapeutic efficacy without eliciting damage to normal surrounding tissue. This review discusses the rationale for utilizing miRNAs to target PSMA, revealing their potential in therapeutic approaches to PC treatment. Different delivery systems for miRNAs and challenges to miRNA therapy are also explored.
