Aldh1a2, also known as Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1, family member A2, is a crucial retinoic acid-synthesizing enzyme [1,2]. It is essential for processes like kidney development, embryonic development, and is involved in the retinoic acid synthesis pathway, which impacts various biological processes [1,2]. Genetic models such as gene knockout (KO) and conditional knockout (CKO) mouse models are valuable tools to study its functions.

In kidney-related studies, Aldh1a2 expression in glomerular parietal epithelial cells (PECs) is altered in different kidney disease models. In anti-glomerular basement membrane glomerulonephritis and ischemia-reperfusion acute kidney injury mouse models, its expression increases, while in chronic kidney disease models combining diabetes, hypertension, and partial nephrectomy, as well as in models of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and diabetic nephropathy, it is repressed [1]. In the context of spermatogenesis, global deletion of Aldh1a2 along with Aldh1a1 blocks spermatogenesis, indicating its importance in this process [3].

In conclusion, Aldh1a2 is essential for multiple biological processes including kidney development and spermatogenesis. Mouse KO/CKO models have been instrumental in revealing its role in kidney pathophysiology and spermatogenesis, highlighting its significance in understanding the mechanisms underlying these processes and associated diseases [1,3].