Expression of TGF Beta Receptor 1 in Sika Deer Antler
TLDR TGF-β receptor 1 helps deer antlers grow by aiding skin and cartilage cell growth.
The study explored the expression of transforming growth factor-β receptor 1 (TGF-β receptor 1) in sika deer antlers, which are unique in their ability to fully regenerate. Using in situ hybridization, it was found that TGF-β receptor 1 mRNA was primarily expressed in the proliferating cells of the dermis and chondrocytes of cartilage columns, with positive signals in dermis fibroblasts, maturing chondroblasts, and mature cartilage region cells. The expression was low in the mesenchyme and epidermis, with no detectable signal in perivascular cells, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands. The findings suggested that TGF-β receptor 1 might play a role in epidermal cell differentiation and dermis fibroblast proliferation, contributing to the rapid growth of deer antler skin in coordination with cartilage growth.
