Understanding the genetics of host resistance and susceptibility to Franciscella tularensis can provide important clues into the interaction between pathogens and their hosts. They can reveal critical molecules involved in both pathogenesis e.g. receptors used by pathogens, and host defense mechanisms to which the pathogen is exquisitely sensitive. It can uncover important components of both the innate and acquired immune system. We will perform a Genome Scan of F2 populations derived from resistant C57Bl/6J and susceptible A/J, and resistant BALB/cJ and susceptible A/J. To confirm QTL linkage we will perform backcross selection using FT resistance for selection. We will perform a backcross to the susceptible parent using F2 progeny that have the lowest bacterial load. This allows an enrichment of the relevant genes at the same time as recombination allows closer localization. This project will identify genes, and pathways that are critical in the ability of hosts to fight off bacterial infections. It concentrates on the resistance to the bacteria that causes rabbit fever, Franciscella tularensis. Understanding the genes involved will lead to better treatments, and better vaccines. ? ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
5R21AI067758-02
Application #
7479604
Study Section
Immunity and Host Defense Study Section (IHD)
Program Officer
Mukhopadhyay, Suman
Project Start
2007-08-15
Project End
2010-07-31
Budget Start
2008-08-01
Budget End
2010-07-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$179,033
Indirect Cost
Name
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
608195277
City
Chapel Hill
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27599