These macrophages are derived from the 129 mouse strain. This is an important detail as the 129 strain has a distinct genetic background from other common strains like C57BL/6, and it's crucial for researchers who are conducting comparative studies or working within a 129-strain-specific model.
Yes, this cell line features a knockout of the Type I interferon-α/β receptor (IFNAR). This makes these cells unresponsive to Type I interferons (IFN-α and IFN-β) and an invaluable tool for studying viral infections or inflammatory pathways where Type I IFN signaling is a key variable.
Absolutely. Since only the Type I (IFN-α/β) receptor is knocked out, the Type II interferon receptor (IFNGR) remains intact and functional. This makes the cell line an ideal negative control system to isolate and study IFN-gamma-specific signaling pathways without confounding activation from endogenous or experimental Type I IFNs.
For Research Use Only. Do Not Use in Food Manufacturing or Medical Procedures (Diagnostics or Therapeutics). Do Not Use in Humans.