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Variable expression of human transgenes in SHN mice
H Nagasawa1, M Mizuno, M Hasegawa
1Experimental Animal Research Laboratory, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan.
Laboratory Animals
|April 1, 1996
Summary
SHN mice exhibit resistance to expressing certain human transgenes, including transforming growth factor alpha (TGFα) and growth hormone (GH), with expression diminishing after the second generation.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Transgenic mice are crucial models for studying gene function and disease.
- Investigating transgene expression in specific mouse strains can reveal unique genetic resistances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the expression and stability of human transforming growth factor alpha (hTGFα) and human growth hormone (hGH) transgenes in the SHN mouse strain.
- To determine if SHN mice possess inherent resistance to the expression of these specific human transgenes.
Main Methods:
- Introduction of MMTV/hTGFα and mWAP/hGH transgenes into SHN mice via mating.
- Maintenance of transgenic lines through successive backcrossing to SHN virgin females.
- Monitoring of transgene expression (mRNA and serum protein levels) across generations (N1, N2, N3).
Main Results:
- Mammary gland outgrowth and hTGFα mRNA expression observed in N1 and N2 generations.
- Elevated serum hGH levels detected in both male and female mice during N1 and N2 generations.
- Complete disappearance of transgene expression characteristics by the third generation (N3).
Conclusions:
- SHN mice demonstrate a specific resistance to the sustained expression of the introduced human transgenes.
- This resistance suggests unique genetic factors within the SHN strain influencing transgene integration or expression.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this transgene resistance in SHN mice.