Caused by the spirochete B. burgdorferi, Lyme disease (LD) is the most common vector-borne infection in the United States. In this study, we aim to determine the role of iNKT cells in developing a protective immune response to LD and against Lyme arthritis 4 weeks after infection by studying CD1d-/- (iNKT-deficient) mice. ELISA, qPCR, and clinical rating guidelines to visually score arthritis in the joint were utilized to determine the role of iNKT cells in these mice versus wild-type mice 4 weeks post B.b. infection. Although iNKT cells have been found to control infection 1-2 weeks post infection in other studies, we found that after 4 weeks, iNKT cells do not play a significant role in controlling LD in the murine model used.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Clark, Stacie Ann

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-011112-193414

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 2012

Sponsor

• University of Massachusetts Medical Center

Date created

• 2012-01-11

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright