Expression of c-kit and stem cell factor mRNA in liver specimens from healthy adult dogs

Abstract

Objective - To determine expression of c-kit and stem cell factor (SCF) mRNA in liver specimens from healthy adult dogs and to investigate whether differentiation of mast cells in the liver of dogs is supported by the c-kit receptor tyrosine kinase/SCF system. Animals - 3 healthy adult Beagles. Procedure - The nucleic acid sequence of the canine c-kit fragment of the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain was determined. Magnitudes of c-kit and SCF mRNA expression in liver samples was determined by means of northern blot analysis, using probes based on canine sequences. To determine which cells were expressing c-kit and SCF mRNA, in situ hybridization was performed. Results - Expression of c-kit and SCF mRNA in liver samples was weak but appreciable. In situ hybridization revealed that c-kit and SCF mRNA expression was restricted to mast cells and plasma cells, respectively. Conclusion - Expression of SCF mRNA was detected in liver from healthy adult dogs. The c-kit receptor tyrosine kinase/SCF system may, possibly in combination with other growth factor and receptor systems, be involved in proliferation and differentiation of liver mast cells in dogs.