Gene Expression of Osteoclast-Associated Receptor or OSCAR with Borrelia Exposure
The Osteoclast-Associated Receptor (OSCAR) gene encodes a collagen-binding surface receptor expressed on immune cells involved in bone resorption and inflammatory signaling. Osteoclasts play a key role in bone breakdown and are recruited during bone tissue damage and subsequent inflammation.
Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, a bacterium that targets collagen-rich tissues such as joints, cartilage, and bone. The bacterium secretes collagenase, leading to collagen degradation and subsequent tissue remodeling.
To investigate whether OSCAR expression is altered following bacterial exposure, RAW 264.7 cells were exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi or Escherichia coli, either individually or in sequential treatments. OSCAR gene expression was measured using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to measure the potential alterations in transcription.
Data analysis is ongoing to determine whether macrophage training through bacterial exposure alters OSCAR expression. These findings may provide insight into early inflammatory responses during the initial infection.