Runx3 expression in gastrointestinal tract epithelium: resolving the controversy

Oncogene. 2009 Mar 12;28(10):1379-84. doi: 10.1038/onc.2008.496. Epub 2009 Jan 26.

Abstract

We reported earlier that RUNX3 is expressed in human and mouse gastrointestinal tract (GIT) epithelium and that it functions as a tumor suppressor in gastric and colorectal tissues. However, there have been conflicting reports describing the absence of Runx3 in GIT epithelial cells. A part of the controversy may be derived from the use of a specific antibody by other groups (referred to as G-poly). Here, we show further evidence to support our earlier observations and provide a possible explanation for this apparent controversy. We generated multiple anti-RUNX3 monoclonal antibodies and found that RUNX3 antibodies recognizing the RUNX3 N-terminal region (residues 1-234) react with RUNX3 in gastric epithelial cells, whereas those recognizing the C-terminal region (beyond residue 234) did not. G-poly primarily recognizes the region beyond 234 and hence, is unable to detect Runx3 in this tissue.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Core Binding Factor Alpha 3 Subunit / analysis*
  • Core Binding Factor Alpha 3 Subunit / genetics
  • Core Binding Factor Alpha 3 Subunit / immunology
  • Gastric Mucosa / chemistry*
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Intestinal Mucosa / chemistry*
  • Mice
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction

Substances

  • Core Binding Factor Alpha 3 Subunit
  • Runx3 protein, mouse