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Magnuson Lab

Major β cell-specific functions of NKX2.2 are mediated via the NK2-specific domain

AUTHORS

Abarinov VVladimir , Levine JAJoshua A , Churchill AJAngela J , Hopwood BBryce , Deiter CSCailin S , Guney MAMichelle A , Wells KLKristen L , Schrunk JMJessica M , Guo YYuchun , Hammelman JJennifer , Gifford DKDavid K , Magnuson MAMark A , Wichterle HHynek , Sussel LLori . Genes & development. 2023 6 26; 37(11-12). 490-504

ABSTRACT

The consolidation of unambiguous cell fate commitment relies on the ability of transcription factors (TFs) to exert tissue-specific regulation of complex genetic networks. However, the mechanisms by which TFs establish such precise control over gene expression have remained elusive-especially in instances in which a single TF operates in two or more discrete cellular systems. In this study, we demonstrate that β cell-specific functions of NKX2.2 are driven by the highly conserved NK2-specific domain (SD). Mutation of the endogenous NKX2.2 SD prevents the developmental progression of β cell precursors into mature, insulin-expressing β cells, resulting in overt neonatal diabetes. Within the adult β cell, the SD stimulates β cell performance through the activation and repression of a subset of NKX2.2-regulated transcripts critical for β cell function. These irregularities in β cell gene expression may be mediated via SD-contingent interactions with components of chromatin remodelers and the nuclear pore complex. However, in stark contrast to these pancreatic phenotypes, the SD is entirely dispensable for the development of NKX2.2-dependent cell types within the CNS. Together, these results reveal a previously undetermined mechanism through which NKX2.2 directs disparate transcriptional programs in the pancreas versus neuroepithelium.

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