Work

The generation and characterization of CTRP9-CreERT2 knock-in mice for targeting endothelial cell muscle and adipose tissues

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) exhibit significant diversity in different tissues. To elucidate the distinct physiological roles of individual EC subtypes, genetic mouse lines utilizing the Cre-loxP recombination system are crucial. However, there is still a lack of Cre mouse lines that specifically target muscle ECs. Here, through analysis of publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing datasets, C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-9 (CTRP9) was identified as a highly selective marker for microvascular ECs in muscle and adipose tissues. A CTRP9-Cre ERT2 -tdTomato knock-in mouse line was then generated using CRISPR/Cas9, with tdTomato serving as a reporter for endogenous CTRP9 expression. By breeding these mice with Rosa26 LSL−EYFP reporter mice and administering tamoxifen, specific EYFP and tdTomato expression was observed in CD31 + ECs in the heart, skeletal muscle, tongue, and adipose tissue from postnatal to adult stages. The EYFP + cells were mainly identified as microvascular ECs, rather than arterial or venous ECs. The CTRP9-Cre ERT2 mouse model allows for precise and effective genetic manipulation of this distinct endothelial population, providing a valuable tool for investigating their roles in muscle metabolism, regeneration, and pathophysiology.

Source: Cell Regeneration

DOI: 10.1186/s13619-026-00300-1