RESUMO
The MUGEN mouse database (MMdb) (www.mugen-noe.org/database/) is a database of murine models of immune processes and immunological diseases. Its aim is to share and publicize information on mouse strain characteristics and availability from participating institutions. MMdb's basic classification of models is based on three major research application categories: Models of Human Disease, Models of Immune Processes and Transgenic Tools. Data on mutant strains includes detailed information on affected gene(s), mutant allele(s) and genetic background (DNA origin, gene targeted, host and backcross strain background). Each gene/transgene index also includes IDs and direct links to Ensembl, ArrayExpress, EURExpress and NCBI's Entrez Gene database. Phenotypic description is standardized and hierarchically structured, based on MGI's mammalian phenotypic ontology terms. Availability (e.g. live mice, cryopreserved embryos, sperm and ES cells) is clearly indicated, along with handling and genotyping details (in the form of documents or hyperlinks) and all relevant contact information (including EMMA and Jax/IMSR hyperlinks where available). MMdb's design offers a user-friendly query interface and provides instant access to the list of mutant strains and genes. Database access is free of charge and there are no registration requirements for data querying.
Assuntos
Bases de Dados Genéticas , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Doenças do Sistema Imunitário/genética , Camundongos Mutantes , Animais , Doenças do Sistema Imunitário/imunologia , Imunidade , Internet , Camundongos , Camundongos Transgênicos , Fenótipo , Interface Usuário-ComputadorRESUMO
We report here that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) deficiency causes innate hypo-responsiveness to a broad range of bacterial or viral constituents. In vivo hypo-responsiveness of TNF-deficient mice to mycobacteria results in defective CD4+ T cell priming to antigens administered in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). This deficiency is restored by supplementary mycobacteria. Furthermore, we show that even when self-reactive CD4+ T cell priming is fully restored, susceptibility of TNF-deficient mice to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) depends on the co-administered pertussis toxin (PTx). TNF-deficient mice are completely resistant to EAE at sub-optimal doses of PTx, while supplementary PTx restores susceptibility. Therefore, TNF shows distinct functions in linking innate responsiveness to CD4+ T cell priming and to the induction of autoimmune disease.