Interferon Responsive Genes in Rodent Models of TSE Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Michael J Stobart, Debra Parchaliuk, Sharon LR Simon, Jillian LeMaistre, Jozef Lazar, Richard Rubenstein, J David Knox
Primary Institution: Public Health Agency of Canada
Hypothesis
The study investigates whether the expression of interferon responsive genes is a general feature of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) diseases across different rodent models.
Conclusion
Increased expression of interferon responsive genes in the brains of three rodent models of TSE disease suggests this may be a common feature of the disease in rodents.
Supporting Evidence
- Increased expression of interferon responsive genes was observed at the onset of clinical symptoms in all models.
- The pattern of gene expression was similar across different rodent models infected via the intracranial route.
- Concurrent increases in pro-apoptotic factors were noted in infected mice.
Takeaway
The study found that certain genes that respond to interferon are more active in the brains of sick rodents, which might help us understand how these diseases progress.
Methodology
The expression levels of interferon responsive genes were measured using quantitative real-time PCR in various rodent models of TSE disease.
Limitations
The study did not analyze the expression of these genes in all possible rodent models or in human cases of TSE.
Participant Demographics
Rodent models including Syrian hamsters and C57BL/6 mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.00052
Statistical Significance
p < 0.008
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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