TGF-β1 Overexpression in Murine Pancreas Induces Chronic Pancreatitis and Together with TNF-α, Triggers Insulin-Dependent Diabetes

We have generated transgenic mice overexpressing TGF-β1 in pancreatic β cells. This resulted in massive fibrosis of the pancreas; in adult mice, most of the acini were replaced by fibrotic and adipose tissues. A conspicuous disorganisation of the islets of Langerhans was also observed, however, the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Biochemical and biophysical research communications 1995-12, Vol.217 (3), p.1279-1286
Main Authors: Sanvito, F., Nichols, A., Herrera, P.L., Huarte, J., Wohlwend, A., Vassalli, J.D., Orci, L.
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:We have generated transgenic mice overexpressing TGF-β1 in pancreatic β cells. This resulted in massive fibrosis of the pancreas; in adult mice, most of the acini were replaced by fibrotic and adipose tissues. A conspicuous disorganisation of the islets of Langerhans was also observed, however, the number of β cells was not decreased and the mice were normoglycemic. Backcrossing to transgenic mice overexpressing TNF-α in their islet β cells (which also remain normoglycemic, (1)) yielded double transgenics, most of which became diabetic by the age of 4 months; histological analysis revealed a dramatic decrease in insulin-containing β cells. (Part of this work has been reported in abstract form, Experientia 51, p. A9, February 1995).
ISSN:0006-291X
1090-2104
DOI:10.1006/bbrc.1995.2906