Combining competition assays with genetic complementation strategies to dissect mouse embryonic stem cell self-renewal and pluripotency

Nat Protoc. 2012 Mar 22;7(4):729-48. doi: 10.1038/nprot.2012.018.

Abstract

Substantial scientific interest has been dedicated recently to the crucial factors that control the pluripotent state of stem cells. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) self-renewal and lineage differentiation, we have developed a robust method for studying the role of a particular gene in these processes. This protocol describes detailed procedures for the design and generation of the complementation rescue system and its application in dissecting the network of pluripotency-associated factors, using mESCs as a model. Specifically, three main procedures are described: (i) screening pluripotency-associated factors by competition assay; (ii) setting up an inducible complementation rescue system; and (iii) dynamically studying the pluripotency network response to target depletion. Completion of the competition assay and complementation rescue system takes 35 and 30 d, respectively, and an additional 16 d to study the dynamic molecular effects of a gene of interest in the pluripotency network.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / genetics
  • Cell Lineage / genetics
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Gene Knockdown Techniques
  • Genetic Complementation Test / methods*
  • Mice
  • Pluripotent Stem Cells / cytology*
  • RNA Interference