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A Cre‐loxP based system for studying horizontal gene transfer
Author(s) -
Bergsmedh Anna,
Ehnfors Jacob,
Spetz Anna-Lena,
Holmgren Lars
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
febs letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.593
H-Index - 257
eISSN - 1873-3468
pISSN - 0014-5793
DOI - 10.1016/j.febslet.2007.05.045
Subject(s) - gene , biology , dna , microbiology and biotechnology , cre lox recombination , immune system , reporter gene , nucleoprotein , genetics , transgene , gene expression , genetically modified mouse
We have previously shown that DNA can be transferred to phagocytosing cells via the uptake of apoptotic cells. We report a model system that facilitates study of antigen presentation of genes transferred specifically via horizontal gene transfer. Constructs were generated encoding the LacZ gene or the influenza A nucleoprotein silenced by a STOP sequence flanked by two loxP sites. These reporter genes were demonstrated to be silent in donor cells and become activated after phagocytosis of Cre‐expressing fibroblasts or macrophages. These results provide a model system for studying the influence of horizontally transferred antigens on activation of the immune system.