Targeted Inactivation of Gh/Tissue Transglutaminase II

The study investigated the role of Gh/tissue transglutaminase II (Tgm2) by creating Tgm2 knockout mice, which were viable and phenotypically normal, indicating Tgm2 was not essential for reproduction or developmental apoptosis. The absence of Tgm2 did not affect α1-adrenergic receptor signaling or thymocyte apoptosis significantly, although Tgm2−/− thymocytes were more susceptible to dexamethasone-induced cell death. Tgm2−/− fibroblasts showed reduced adherence, suggesting Tgm2's involvement in cell attachment and spreading. Cardiovascular assessments showed no significant differences between Tgm2−/− and Tgm2+/+ mice, indicating minimal involvement in cardiovascular function. The study concluded that Tgm2 played a role in stabilizing apoptotic cells and fibroblast interaction with the extracellular matrix.