Study of Tagged Prion Protein Interactions
Author Information
Author(s): Rutishauser Dorothea, Mertz Kirsten D., Moos Rita, Brunner Erich, Rülicke Thomas, Calella Anna Maria, Aguzzi Adriano
Primary Institution: Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Zurich
Hypothesis
The study aims to identify the interaction partners of the cellular prion protein, PrPC, to clarify its molecular function.
Conclusion
The study found that the myc-tagged prion protein retains functional characteristics and can interact with several proteins, suggesting its role in prion diseases.
Supporting Evidence
- The myc-tagged prion protein was shown to be functional in vivo.
- Transgenic mice expressing the tagged protein survived longer than those without it.
- Immunoprecipitation revealed 96 proteins specifically interacting with the tagged prion protein.
Takeaway
Researchers added a tag to a prion protein in mice to see how it interacts with other proteins, helping us understand prion diseases better.
Methodology
Transgenic mice expressing a myc-tagged version of PrPC were created, and protein interactions were analyzed using immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential interaction partners due to the specificity of the tagging method.
Participant Demographics
Transgenic mice were used, specifically lines Tg940 and Tg941.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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