Generation of a Nr2f2-driven inducible Cre mouse to target interstitial cells in the reproductive system

Abstract

The orphan nuclear receptor Nr2f2, also known as COUP-TFII, play important roles in development and function of multiple organs, including the reproductive system. NR2F2 is expressed in the interstitial cells of both embryonic and adult testes, ovaries, and reproductive tracts. Taking advantage of such unique expression pattern, we have developed a tamoxifen inducible Cre model, Nr2f2-iCreERT2, which specifically and efficiently targets interstitial cells in both male and female reproductive organs across embryonic and adult stages. This model offers a powerful tool for gene knockout studies specifically in the interstitial compartment, without affecting the supporting or germ cells. Additionally, it enables interstitial cell lineage tracing, facilitating the assessment of the interstitials contribution to non-interstitial cell types during development and differentiation.