Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
08:01
Identification of Homologous Recombination Events in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Using Southern Blotting and Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: November 20, 2018
[Construction and identification of HBD-2 transgenic mice]
Shu Zhang1, Ning Huang, Xinyu Zhao
1Research Unit of Infection and Immunity, West China Medical Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Summary
Researchers created a human beta defensin 2 (HBD-2) transgenic mouse model to study its in vivo effects. This model demonstrated widespread HBD-2 gene expression in multiple tissues, validating its utility for further research.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Context:
- Human beta defensin 2 (HBD-2) is recognized for its antimicrobial properties demonstrated in vitro.
- Understanding the in vivo role of HBD-2 is crucial for its therapeutic potential in combating infections.
- Existing research primarily focuses on in vitro antimicrobial capacity, necessitating in vivo validation.
Purpose:
- To develop a transgenic mouse model for evaluating the in vivo effects of human beta defensin 2 (HBD-2).
- To confirm the successful integration and expression of the HBD-2 minigene in a mammalian system.
- To analyze the tissue-specific expression patterns of HBD-2 at both mRNA and peptide levels in vivo.
Summary:
- A transgenic mouse model was successfully generated by microinjecting an HBD-2 minigene into fertilized oocytes.
- PCR analysis confirmed the incorporation of the HBD-2 minigene in F0 generation transgenic mice.
- RT-PCR and immunohistological staining revealed widespread expression of HBD-2 mRNA and peptide in various tissues of F1 transgenic mice, including the trachea, lung, intestine, and brain.
Impact:
- Establishes a valuable in vivo tool for studying the physiological functions and therapeutic applications of HBD-2.
- Provides foundational data on the tissue distribution and expression of HBD-2 in a living organism.
- Opens avenues for investigating HBD-2's role in host defense mechanisms and potential treatments for infectious diseases.
