Grem2-flox Mouse

Grem2, also known as Gremlin 2 or protein related to Dan and cerberus (PRDC), is a secreted factor and a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist. It is involved in multiple biological processes such as osteogenesis, adipogenesis, and tooth development [2,3,5,6,7]. Grem2 is associated with pathways like TGFβ, BMP4/7-SMAD1/5/8, and JNK signaling, which are crucial for cell differentiation, apoptosis, and tissue homeostasis [1,2,4].

In Grem2-deficient mice, partial Grem2 inactivation in female mice led to increased trabecular bone mass in the femur and tibia due to increased trabecular thickness, with unchanged cortical thickness, and stimulated osteoblast differentiation [3]. Grem2 -/- mice developed small deformed mandibular and maxillary incisors, indicating its requirement for normal tooth morphogenesis [7]. In addition, Grem2-overexpressed mice exhibited a reduced browning ability of visceral fat, while Grem2 ablation enhanced the browning capacity and reduced visceral fat content [2].

In conclusion, Grem2 plays essential roles in bone development, tooth morphogenesis, and adipose tissue browning. Gene-knockout mouse models have been instrumental in revealing these functions, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for osteoporosis, tooth agenesis, and obesity-related diseases.