Analysis of Gsk-3-Deficient Embryonic Stem Cells Reveals Large-Scale Alterations in Gene Expression. Mus musculus

The two vertebrate Gsk-3 isoforms, Gsk-3a and Gsk-3b, are encoded by distinct genetic loci and exhibit mostly redundant function in murine embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Here we report that deletion of both Gsk-3a and Gsk-3b in mouse ESCs results in significant changes in gene expression. In contrast, deletion of either Gsk-3a or Gsk-3b individually had little effect on gene expression. These data support the notion that Gsk-3 isoforms are functionally redundant in embryonic stem cells. In addition, we did not find the expected upregulation of known Wnt target genes. Our data suggests that Gsk-3-meidated regulation of gene expression in embryonic stem cells is complex, and likely involves affects on numerous signaling pathways. Overall design: The study was designed to examine the changes in gene expression between wild-type, Gsk-3a-/-, Gsk-3b-/-, and Gsk-3a-/-;Gsk-3b-/- mouse embryonic stem cells.