Impact of βB2-crystallin Mutation on Mouse Fertility
Author Information
Author(s): Kevin M. DuPrey, Kimberly M. Robinson, Yan Wang, Jennifer R. Taube, Melinda K. Duncan
Primary Institution: University of Delaware
Hypothesis
Does the βB2-crystallin mutation affect fertility in mice?
Conclusion
Mice with the βB2-crystallin mutation are subfertile on a Swiss Webster background but not on a C57Bl/6 background.
Supporting Evidence
- βB2-crystallin is expressed in developing and mature sperm.
- Mice with the Crybb2Phil mutation showed reduced fertility compared to controls.
- Subfertility was not observed in mice with the same mutation on a different genetic background.
Takeaway
Mice with a specific gene mutation have trouble having babies, but this problem goes away when they are bred with a different type of mouse.
Methodology
The study involved analyzing the expression of βB2-crystallin in the testis and assessing fertility through quantitative testing and morphological analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential inbreeding depression in the original mouse strain could confound results.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to all genetic backgrounds due to strain-dependent effects.
Participant Demographics
Mice were of two genetic backgrounds: Swiss Webster and C57Bl/6.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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