Work Package 3 - Mouse - Man cross talk
Last updated 2006-10-18
The mouse models provide a possibility to investigate the fundamental molecular pathway leading to the the different clinical presentations of APS I caused by the Aire gene defect which is likely to require interactions with other genes. Likewise, interactions with other genes are expected to influence more common autoimmune disorders leading to inflammation in the CNS (e.g. multiple sclerosis), in joints (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis), in pancreatic beta cells (type I diabetes) and in the thyroid (thyroiditis). We already know that studies of the role of the Aire gene in the mouse have provided fundamental knowledge of critical importance to understand the pathology of these diseases. Thus, the potential impact of these studies is not only the identification of drug targets within the pathway leading to APS I, but also drug targets of therapeutic importance for common widespread autoimmune diseases like RA, MS, type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
European added value:The identification of the Aire gene and the investigations of its importance using mouse models have been developed mainly through European academic groups involved in this application. A non-European group has joined (Canberra), which will contribute with unique genetic models enabling studies of T cell selection and interactions with other genes affecting T cell tolerance and this group is already involved in a productive and longstanding collaboration with other groups within the consortium.