Gene array analysis of embryonic- versus adult-derived hypothalamic NPY-expressing cell lines

Few studies have utilized microarray analysis to understand the genome wide changes involved in the development of the hypothalamus despite its overall importance to basic physiology. Gene expression profiling of immortalized, clonal hypothalamic neurons, embryonic-derived mHypoE-46 and adult-derived mHypoA-2/12, reveals that the expression of 1225 probes was significantly changed between the two neuronal models. Further comparison of the gene expression profiles identified two categories of genes that were confirmed with qRT-PCR: (i) genes implicated in the Wnt signaling pathway; and (ii) transcription factors previously implicated in the development of the central nervous system. Yet, functional analysis of the two cell lines, including hormonal responses and secretion, indicate that they are comparable despite their developmental origin. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of embryonic- and adult-derived hypothalamic neuronal cell models that both express neuropeptide Y, and identifies novel genes as candidates for mediating the development of specific hypothalamic neurons.

► Gene profiling of adult or embryonic neurons reveals developmental candidates.
► Wnt signaling cascade genes are expressed in the embryonic lines.
► Development-related transcription factors expressed in embryonic lines.
► Functional analysis reveals similarities in signal transduction pathway activation.
► Hormonal response and secretion similar despite time of immortalization.