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Canopy FGF signaling regulator 2 (CNPY2) is a FGF21-modulated protein containing a saposin B-type domain. In vitro studies have shown CNPY2 is able to enhance neurite outgrowth in neurons and stabilize the expression of low density lipoprotein receptor in macrophages and hepatocytes. However, no in vivo data are available on the normal expression of CNPY2 and information is lacking on which cell types express this protein in tissues. To address this, the present study examined CNPY2 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. Quantitative PCR and ELISA examination of mouse tissues showed that CNPY2 varies between organs, with the highest expression in the heart, lung and liver. Immunohistochemistry detected CNPY2 in a variety of cell types including skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle myocytes, endothelial cells and epithelial cells. CNPY2 was also detectable in mouse blood and human and mouse uteri. These data demonstrate CNPY2 is widely distributed in tissues and suggest the protein has biological functions that have yet to be identified. Using these new observations we discuss possible functions of the protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem Understanding of uterine natural killer (u NK) cell functions during normal pregnancy remains incomplete. Method of study Cloud tag analysis of literature was used to document themes addressed experimentally for u NK cells. Immunohistochemistry, including whole-mount staining of early implantation sites, separation of u NK cells into molecularly distinct subsets, and physiologic measurements in normal and mutant mice, are further advancing understanding of u NK cell biology. Results Literature analyses revealed three key, current u NK cell research themes: angiogenesis, spiral arterial remodeling/pre-eclampsia/hypertension and infertility. UNK cells are being defined as cells potentially regulated by Wnt signaling that are heterogeneous in progenitor source and function and make unique contributions to implantation site development prior to spiral arterial remodeling. Conclusion Future studies are poised to define uNK cell progenitor cells, identify the signaling pathways supporting established u NK cell functions and move current understanding of mouse u NK cells to clinical research questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]