Caspase-3 regulates ureteric branching in mice via cell migration

Inhibition of caspase-3 (Casp3) reduces ureteric branching in organ culture but the mechanism remains unclear. Since Casp3 has non-apoptotic functions, we examined whether Casp3 regulates ureteric branching by promoting cell migration, using a ureteric bud (UB) cell line and Casp3-deficient (Casp3−/−) mice. Also, we examined whether Casp3 plays a role in the reduced ureteric branching of metanephroi from nutrient restricted mothers, in which Casp3 activity is suppressed. A Casp3 inhibitor Ac-DNLD-CHO reduced FGF2-induced cord formation of UB cells in 3D culture. UB cell migration assessed by Boyden chamber and wound healing assays was inhibited by Ac-DNLD-CHO. Glomerular number was reduced by ≈ 30%, and ureteric tip number was lower in Casp3−/− mice compared with controls. Maternal nutrient restriction decreased ureteric tip number in controls but not in Casp3−/−. In conclusion, Casp3 regulates ureteric branching by promoting UB cell migration. Inhibited ureteric branching by maternal nutrient restriction may be mediated by Casp3. •Caspase-3 inhibition reduces cord formation of ureteric bud cells with no signs of apoptosis.•Caspase-3 inhibition reduces ureteric bud cell migration in Boyden chamber and wound healing assays.•Glomerular number and ureteric bud branching of caspase-3-deficient mice are reduced.•Maternal nutrient restriction reduces ureteric branching in control mice but not in caspase-3-deficient mice.