Genetic Cre-loxP assessment of epicardial cell fate using Wt1-Driven cre alleles

Abstract

RATIONALE: Wt1-Cre-based tools are important reagents for studying epicardial cell fate and gene function. OBJECTIVE: To better describe the properties of Wt1-Cre-based tools to enhance their use in Cre-loxP-based experiments. METHODS AND RESULTS: In contrast to recently reported results, we show that constitutive Wt1 in combination with certain Cre-activated reporters can be used to trace (pro) epicardial cell fate. Wt1 can be efficiently induced by tamoxifen administration. We show substantial labeling of coronary endothelial cells when induction is performed at late but not early stages of heart development. CONCLUSIONS: Wt1-based Cre alleles are useful tools for genetic lineage tracing of epicardial cells and mesothelium of other organs. Using these tools with proper understanding of their properties and limitations enables genetic labeling of epicardial cells and their derivatives. © 2012 American Heart Association, Inc.