Abstract

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is an inflammatory lymphokine that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases, including experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU). To study the possible role of IFN-gamma in ocular pathogenesis, we generated transgenic mice and rats with constitutive expression of IFN-gamma in the eye. We have extensively characterized both the rat and mouse IFN-gamma transgenic models, and they now constitute a comprehensive and complementary transgenic animal system for the study of the in vivo effects of IFN-gamma in the eye. In fiscal year 1995, our efforts were directed at understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the remarkable effects of IFN-gamma on the development and growth of the entire eye. Our studies indicate that the primary effect is on transcription of several lens and nonlenticular genes. Two IFN-gamma-specific transcription factors, interferon consensus sequence binding protein (ICSBP) and interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1), were found to be induced in the eyes of transgenic mice and rats but not in the eyes of wildtype litter mates.

  Funding Agency

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01EY000280-04
Application #
5202342
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
1995
Total Cost
Indirect Cost

  Institution

Name
U.S. National Eye Institute
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code