Validation of normalizing factors for gene expression studies in a murine model of traumatic brain injury
2008

Normalizing Factors for Gene Expression in Brain Injury Studies

Sample size: 10 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hervé Rhinn, Catherine Marchand-Leroux, Nicole Croci, Michel Plotkine, Daniel Scherman, Virginie Escriou

Primary Institution: Inserm, U640, Paris, France

Hypothesis

What are the optimal normalizing factors for RT-qPCR in a murine model of traumatic brain injury?

Conclusion

Oligreen cDNA measurements, 18S rRNA, and GAPDH are suggested as effective normalizing factors for gene expression studies in mouse brain trauma.

Supporting Evidence

  • Oligreen cDNA measurements ranked among the best normalizing factors.
  • GAPDH and 18S rRNA were also found to be suitable for normalization.
  • β-actin and β-microtubulin should be avoided as normalizing factors.

Takeaway

This study found that certain measurements can help scientists better understand gene expression after brain injuries in mice.

Methodology

The study compared five potential reference genes and total cDNA levels using various statistical methods to determine the best normalizing factors for qRT-PCR.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in selecting reference genes without prior validation.

Limitations

The study focused only on a specific murine model and may not generalize to other models or conditions.

Participant Demographics

Male CD-1 mice, weighing 21–24 g.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2199-9-62

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