Project description:We report sequential binding but unique functions of different Sox transcription factors during distinct stages of neural differentiation We used microarray to examine the molecular function of Sox3 in neural progenitor cells. Over-expression of Sox3 under Nestin-promoter in neural progenitor cells. Cells are transgenic for GFP in Sox1 locus and were FACS sorted to obtain pure populations.
Project description:To identify the potential functions of SRSF10 in neural progenitor cells and neocortex development, we constructed SRSF10 flox/flox mice, and conditionally knock out the SRSF10 in the neural progenitor cells by breeding with Nestin-Cre mice.
Project description:Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune skin blistering disease characterized by autoimmunity against the hemidesmosomal proteins BP180, type XVII collagen, and BP230. To elucidate the genetic basis of susceptibility to BP, we performed the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) in Germans. This GWAS was combined with HLA locus targeted sequencing in an additional independent BP cohort. The strongest association with BP in Germans tested in this study was observed in the two HLA loci, HLA-DQA1*05:05 and HLA-DRB1*07:01. Further studies with increased sample sizes and complex studies integrating multiple pathogenic drivers will be conducted.
Project description:Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) is a rare cause of destructive inflammatory arthritis involving both small, as well as larger joints. We report the case of a 40-year-old Caucasian female with a family history of neoplasia who was referred to our service witha two-month history of inflammatory joint pain. On examination, the patient had inflammatory arthritis, mainly involving the peripheral joints, sacroiliac joint pain, and numerous papulonodular mucocutaneous lesions, including periungual "coral beads". Imaging tests revealed erosive arthritis with synovitis and tenosynovitis, sacroiliac joint changes, as well as papulonodular mucosal lesions in the nasal vestibule, the oropharyngeal mucosa, and supraglottic larynx. She tested positive for HLA-B*07 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B*07) and HLA-B*08, ANA (antinuclear antibodies), RF (rheumatoid factor), anti-Ro52, anti-SSA/Ro, and anti-SSB/La antibodies. The skin biopsy was suggestive of MRH, showing a histiocyte infiltrate and frequent giant multinucleated cells. The patient exhibited favorable outcomes under Methotrexate, then Leflunomide. However, she displayed worsening clinical symptoms while under Azathioprine. To our knowledge, this is the first case of MRH to exhibit positive HLA-B*07 together with HLA-B*08. The rarity of MRH, its unknown etiology and polymorphic clinical presentation, as well as its potential neoplastic/paraneoplastic, and autoimmune nature demand extensive investigation.
Project description:We have developed spontaneous genetically engineered GBM mouse models from two distinct cells of origin: subventricular zone neural stem cells (SVZ; Nestin-creERT2) and oligodendrocyte lineage progenitor cells (OPC; NG2-creERTM). These tumors are biologically separable and are reflective of their lineage of origin.