Abstract
The FOXL2C134W mutation has been identified in virtually all adult granulosa cell tumors (GCTs). Here we show that the exogenous FOXL2 expression is necessary for GDF-9 stimulation of follistatin transcription in the human GCT cell line, COV434 that lacks endogenous FOXL2 expression. Interestingly, in the presence of Smad3 co-expression, FOXL2C134W negated GDF-9 stimulation of follistatin transcription. However, mutation of the Smad binding element (SBE) located in the intronic enhancer elements in the follistatin gene restored normal FOXL2 activity to FOXL2C134W, thus the altered activity of FOXL2C134W is dependent on the ability of Smad3 to directly bind the SBE. Mutation of the FOXL2 binding element (FBE) or the FBE and SBE completely prevented GDF-9 activity, suggesting that the FBE is essential for GDF-9 stimulation in COV434. Overall, our study supports the view that altered interaction of FOXL2C134W with co-factors may underlie the pathogenesis of this mutation in GCTs.
Accepted Version (Free)
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.