Kristín Hekla Magnúsdóttir, Fatich Mechmet, Eiríkur Steingrímsson and Petur Henry Petersen
Introduction. Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) is expressed in various cell types including melanocytes, retinal pigment epithelial cells, cardiomyocytes, osteoclasts, and mast cells. It also exhibits strong and distinct expression in subpopulations of cells within the central nervous system, notably the olfactory bulb’s mitral and tufted cells. The role of MITF within the central nervous system and immune system is largely unknown. Previous studies have suggested that MITF represses the expression of a specific group of antiviral genes in Mitf heterozygote mouse melanocytes, suggesting a potential regulatory role in innate immune responses. Methods. Gene expression analysis and FACS. Results. Despite the absence of mature mast cells in Mitf mutants, the expression of antiviral genes remains elevated in both peritoneal mast cells and in the meninges. The specific cell types expressing these antiviral genes are yet to be determined. Conclusions. These findings highlight the significant role of Mitf in regulating antiviral gene expression.
