MHC II-EGFP Knock-in Mouse Model

Abstract

The MHC II–EGFP knock-in mouse model enables us to visualize and track MHC-II-expressing cells in vivo by expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) fused to the MHC class II molecule under the MHC II beta chain promoter. Using this model, we can easily identify MHC-II-expressing cells, including dendritic cells, B cells, macrophages, and ILC3s, which play a key role as antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for CD4+ T cells. In addition, we can also precisely identify and analyze APC-containing tissues and organs. Even after fixation, EGFP retains its fluorescence, so this model is suitable for immunofluorescence studies, facilitating an unbiased characterization of the histological context, especially with techniques such as light-sheet fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, the MHC II–EGFP knock-in mouse model is valuable for studying the molecular mechanisms of MHC II gene regulation and expression by making it possible to correlate MHC II expression (MHC II–EGFP) with surface fraction through antibody detection, thereby shedding light on the intricate regulation of MHC II expression.