Mouse Model for Premature Aging: Zmpste24 Knockout Mice

Tech ID: 20469 / UC Case 2007-222-0

Background

Progerias are rare genetic diseases characterized by premature aging including: retarded growth, osteoporosis, alopecia, and ultimately occlusive vascular disease. Many progeriod disorders are caused by mutations that lead to the accumulation of a lipid-modified form of prelamin A (farnesyl-prelamin A), resulting in a disruption of the cell nucleus. Zmpste24 is a mammalian integral membrane metalloproteinase that is critical for the processing of farnesylated proteins containing the carboxyl-terminal CAAX motif. Zmpste24, an ortholog of the yeast protein Ste24p, acts as an endoprotease by cleaving the 15 amino acids from the C terminus of prelamin A (including the farnesyl group), releasing mature lamin A.

Innovation

UCLA researchers have developed Zmpste24 knockout mice in order to determine the developmental and biochemical roll of Zmpste24. Zmpste24 -/- mice have retarded growth, hair loss, muscle weakness, spontaneous bone fracture, and shortened life spans. Zmpste24 deficient cells demonstrate the accumulation of wildtype farnesyl-prelamin A along the nuclear envelope, leading to misshapen nuclei. Researchers continue to utilize the Zmpste24 knockout mice to further understand the mechanism of progerias and ultimately provide treatment options for patients.

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Inventors

  • Young, Stephen G.

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Keywords

compliant electrode, dielectric elastomers, self-clearing, self-healing, dielectric breakdown, discharge, artificial muscles, mechanical actuators, solution processable metal.

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