The initial cloning and characterization of a Toll-like receptor (TLR) in 1997 has sparked research interests resulting in over 5000 publications to date. Subsequent studies have revealed at least 10 unique TLR receptors exist that respond to unique pathogen-associated molecular patterns. TLR3 is primarily localized intracellularly in endosomal compartments. It is activated by viral dsRNA that results in IFNβ expression and control of viral replication. The significance of this pathway is supported by the discovery that hepatitis C virus targets TLR3 signaling to facilitate viral replication. Separately, individuals with a missense mutation in TLR3 have an increased risk for influenza-associated encephalopathy. Molecules that enhance TLR3 signaling might represent a new antiviral drug class. Thus, there is a clear need for rapid, robust and reproducible cell-based assays for the evaluation of TLR3 signaling.
The mouse animal model has emerged as an exceptional tool for in vitro and in vivo analysis of TLR signaling including IFNβ expression in response to dsRNA. However, in vitro cell-based studies can be complicated due to the issues of RNA stability, transfection efficiency (with low cytotoxicity) and IFNβ assay sensitivity. PBL InterferonSource is proud to announce the first complete kit for the evaluation of TLR3 murine IFNβ signaling (PBL Cat # 42420-1). This kit contains the proven TLR3 dsRNA ligand polyinosinic: polycytidilic acid p[I:C] to initiate TLR3 signaling and our mouse IFNβ ELISA to monitor the effects of p[I:C] induced expression of mouse IFNβ. Most importantly, this kit contains detailed protocols that allows novice researchers quick entry into this exciting field of research (Figure 1). Quantitative results are obtained using only a standard microplate reader (Figure 2).
So whether you are searching for TLR3 agonists or antagonists, or performing pathway analysis studies, choose the TLR3-Ready mouse IFNβ kit and focus on discovery rather than assay development.
