Vim, encoding vimentin, is a gene that codes for a major cytoskeletal protein. Vimentin intermediate filaments (IFs) play a critical role in regulating cell mechanics, coordinating mechanosensing, transduction, signaling pathways, motility, and inflammatory responses [1].

Initial studies on the vimentin knockout (Vim-/- ) mouse indicated it could develop and reproduce without an obvious phenotype, but subsequent comprehensive analyses revealed numerous phenotypes in Vim-/- mice and their organs, tissues, and cells. These often reflected altered responses in tissue recovery following various insults or injuries, supporting the idea that vimentin is essential in these processes [1].

In conclusion, Vim, through encoding vimentin, is crucial for cell mechanics and coordinating multiple cellular functions. The study of Vim-/- mouse models has significantly contributed to understanding its role in tissue recovery after insults, providing insights into potential mechanisms underlying various disease conditions related to tissue injury and repair.

References:

1. Ridge, Karen M, Eriksson, John E, Pekny, Milos, Goldman, Robert D. . Roles of vimentin in health and disease. In Genes & development, 36, 391-407. doi:10.1101/gad.349358.122. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35487686/