Mist1 is a basic-Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) transcription factor expressed in pancreatic acinar cells that regulates genes essential for the establishment of apical-basal polarity, the proper positioning of zymogen granules, and for setting up gap junctions. In MIST1-deficient mice (MIST1KO), pancreatic acinar cells undergo morphological and physiological changes attributed to distinct gene expression patterns that involve up-regulated and down-regulated transcripts suggesting that MIST1 can act as an activator and repressor of gene transcription. Additionally, Mist1 is critical for preventing the development of precancerous lesions by oncogenic KrasG12D mutation.  In an effort to study how MIST1 controls normal acinar cell development and blocks KrasG12D transformation events, we set out to investigate how MIST1 can activate or repress gene transcription depending on the gene context. Here, we confirm the transcriptional regulatory function of MIST1 on a subset of putative MIST1 targets in an in vitro transfection model.

Characterizing Mist1 transcriptional targets in the exocrine pancreas

245th National Meeting (2013)

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