Zfp423 expression identifies committed preadipocytes and localizes to adipose endothelial and perivascular cells

Cell Metab. 2012 Feb 8;15(2):230-9. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2012.01.010.

Abstract

Progress has been made in elucidating the cell-surface phenotype of primary adipose progenitors; however, specific functional markers and distinct molecular signatures of fat depot-specific preadipocytes have remained elusive. In this study, we label committed murine adipose progenitors through expression of GFP from the genetic locus for Zfp423, a gene controlling preadipocyte determination. Selection of GFP-expressing fibroblasts from either subcutaneous or visceral adipose-derived stromal vascular cultures isolates stably committed preadipocytes that undergo robust adipogenesis. Immunohistochemistry for Zfp423-driven GFP expression in vivo confirms a perivascular origin of preadipocytes within both white and brown adipose tissues. Interestingly, a small subset of capillary endothelial cells within white and brown fat also express this marker, suggesting a contribution of specialized endothelial cells to the adipose lineage. Zfp423(GFP) mice represent a simple tool for the specific localization and isolation of molecularly defined preadipocytes from distinct adipose tissue depots.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adipocytes / cytology*
  • Adipocytes / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Cell Lineage / physiology
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism*
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Gene Expression Profiling
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Pericytes / metabolism*
  • Stem Cells / cytology
  • Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism*

Substances

  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Ebfaz protein, mouse
  • Transcription Factors
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins

Associated data

  • GEO/GSE34775