Aim: To clone the mouse p27(Kip1) gene and analyze its expression and possible function in the signaling through antigen receptor and CD40 in peripheral blood B cells.
Methods: Mouse p27(Kip1)was cloned from cultured B cells by RT-PCR. Apoptosis of the B cells was detected by flow cytometry. Expression of p27(Kip1)gene was detected by Northern blot.
Results: Mouse p27(Kip1)gene was successfully cloned. In consistence with B cell apoptosis or survival, cross-linking of antigen receptor also induced up-regulation of p27(Kip1)in mouse B cells, which was blocked by CD40 signaling. Antigen receptor-mediated B cell apoptosis was blocked by antisense oligonucleotides directed against p27(Kip1).
Conclusion: These data suggest that p27(Kip1)may be involved in apoptosis and survival of B cells mediated by antigen receptor and CD40 signals, respectively.