Pneumocystis murina colonization in mice lacking surfactant protein A
Author Information
Author(s): Michael J Linke, Alan D Ashbaugh, Jeffery A Demland, Peter D Walzer
Primary Institution: University of Cincinnati
Hypothesis
Does surfactant protein A protect immunocompetent hosts from Pneumocystis murina colonization following environmental exposure?
Conclusion
Surfactant protein A plays a crucial role in protecting immunocompetent hosts from Pneumocystis murina colonization.
Supporting Evidence
- Immunocompetent KO mice showed a peak in P. murina mRNA expression at 8-10 weeks.
- Immunosuppressed KO mice developed higher levels of P. murina infection than WT mice.
- Immunocompetent KO mice transmitted P. murina infection to SCID mice.
Takeaway
Mice without a specific protein are more likely to get sick from a common germ found in the environment, showing that this protein helps keep them healthy.
Methodology
The study analyzed the susceptibility of SP-A deficient and wild-type mice to P. murina colonization using qPCR and ELISA.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of results due to the specific genetic background of the mice used.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a controlled environment, which may not fully represent natural exposure conditions.
Participant Demographics
C3H/HeN SP-A deficient (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice aged 2-18 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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