Collagen Type XIV Down-regulation in the Biglycan Null Mouse

Type XIV collagen is a member of the Fibril Associated Collagens with Interrupted Triple-helices (FACIT) family of collagens. As it s name suggests, it interacts with fibrillar collagens in the extracellular matrix (ECM). It is also thought to interact with other matrix molecules in order to participate in the ECM's three-dimensional architecture. One of these potential molecules is biglycan, a member of the Small Leucine Rich Proteoglycan (SLRP) family. The SLRP's are thought to play a role in protein-protein interactions and tissue assembly. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not biglycan affects type XIV collagen expression and consequently the three-dimensional architecture of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Methods: RNA was extracted from skin samples of wild-type and biglycan-null mice. RT-PCR was performed with six primer pairs on the MX4000 real-time PCR apparatus. Six primer pairs for real-time PCR were designed. These primer pairs were specific for: 1,the NC3; 2, the long-form NC1; and 3, the short form NC1 domains of collagen XIV. Dissociation and amplification plots were observed, standard curves were evaluated and relative quantities compared. Results: The biglycan knockout mice produced significantly lower amounts of the collagen XIV when compared to the wild-type controls. Conclusion: The lack of production of biglycan in the null mice correlates with a decrease in mRNA production of these isoforms of collagen XIV. This study was supported by the Baylor Oral Health Foundation and NIH/NIDCR DE07188.