Pck2-flox Mouse

Pck2, short for phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2, is a mitochondrial metabolic kinase and a gluconeogenesis enzyme. It is involved in multiple cellular processes, such as phospholipid remodeling, proteostasis, and maintaining redox balance. It participates in pathways like the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and is crucial for cell survival, antibody secretion, and mucosal immune homeostasis [1,2,3]. Genetic models, like gene knockout (KO) mouse models, are valuable for studying its functions.

In KO mouse models, loss of Pck2 in B cells exacerbates dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-induced colitis due to increased IgA ASC cell death and diminished antibody production [3]. In Pck2-KO mice, neointimal hyperplasia in wire-injured femoral arteries is attenuated, indicating that Pck2 regulates vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation via the Akt-FoxO-Pck2 pathway [4].

In conclusion, Pck2 plays essential roles in maintaining redox balance, proteostasis, and cell survival. KO mouse models have revealed its significance in diseases such as colitis and atherosclerosis, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.