Inhibition of the glutamine transporter SNAT1 confers neuroprotection in mice by modulating the mTOR-autophagy system.

The pathophysiological role of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in neurodegenerative diseases is established, but possible therapeutic targets responsible for its activation in neurons must be explored. Here we identified solute carrier family 38a member 1 (SNAT1, ) as a positive regulator of mTORC1 in neurons. and mice were crossed to generate mutant mice in which was selectively deleted in neurons.

Runx2 function in cells of neural crest origin during intramembranous ossification.

Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), also known as core binding factor 1 (Cbfa1), is a multifunctional transcription factor and an essential master gene controlling osteoblast differentiation. We previously demonstrated the in vivo functions of Runx2 in mesoderm-derived cells. However, no studies have been conducted on Runx2 function during the differentiation of neural crest (NC)-derived cells in vivo.