Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 18, 2026

A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Androgen receptor influences on body defense system via modulation of innate and adaptive immune systems: lessons
Jiann-Jyh Lai1, Kuo-Pao Lai, Weiping Zeng
1George Whipple Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
Abstract:
Upon insult, such as infection or tissue injury, the innate and adaptive immune systems initiate a series of responses to defend the body. Recent studies from immune cell-specific androgen receptor (AR) knockout mice demonstrated that androgen and its receptor (androgen/AR) play significant roles in both immune regulations. In the innate immunity, androgen/AR is required for generation and proper function of neutrophils; androgen/AR also regulates wound healing processes through macrophage recruitment and proinflammatory cytokine production. In adaptive immunity, androgen/AR exerts suppressive effects on development and activation of T and B cells. Removal of such suppression causes thymic enlargement and excessive export of immature B cells. Altogether, androgen/AR plays distinct roles in individual immune cells, and targeting androgen/AR may help in treatment and management of immune-related diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Diversity of Antigen Receptors
Before encountering any antigen, lymphocytes express these receptors. On B cells, the antigen receptor is a membrane-bound antibody molecule called BCR; on T cells, it is a T cell receptor or TCR. B and T cell receptors are composed of two...
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Introduction to Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Innate immunity is the body's natural, nonspecific defense system that acts quickly to protect against pathogens. It incorporates physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes and cellular elements such as phagocytes and natural killer cells. This part of our immune system provides an immediate,...
Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and reactivity.
Mouse Models of Cancer Study
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
