Urology

Phenotype Characterisation and Physiological Stress Responses in Activin b C Mouse Models

We have created and are currently characterising a b C-activin over-expressing mouse model and comparing this to normal mice and mice lacking the b C-activin gene. In addition experiments will be performed that place physiological stress on the mice (immune challenge, castration, chronic liver injury). By using these models we will be able to examine the biological effects of increased b C-activin and absence of b C-activin thus giving significant new information as to the potential biological role of this growth factor. Our overall hypothesis is that b C-activin is a growth regulator, so may therefore be able to be targeted therapeutically in diseases of abnormal growth (prostate cancer is an example of particular relevance to our group).