Sex disparities in influenza: a multiscale network analysis (Male ferrets)

This study utilized a network-based approach to characterize the blood transcriptome collected over the course of infection with influenza A virus from female and male ferrets to dissect sex-biased gene expression shaped by genetically determined differences. It provides molecular insights into genetically driven sex differences in transcriptional regulation of immune responses. Whole blood transcriptome profiles from 36 male ferrets were measured at days 1, 3, 5, and 8 post infection. Plaque assays were performed to determine the viral burden from nasal swabs. The relative weight of each animal was determined at corresponding time points.

本研究采用基于网络的分析方法，对感染甲型流感病毒（influenza A virus）过程中采集的雌雄雪貂血液转录组进行表征，以解析由遗传决定的差异所塑造的性别偏向性基因表达模式。本研究为免疫反应转录调控中遗传驱动的性别差异提供了分子层面的科学见解。研究团队在感染后第1、3、5、8天，对36只雄性雪貂的全血转录组谱进行了检测；通过空斑试验（plaque assays）测定鼻拭子中的病毒载量，并在对应时间点记录每只实验动物的相对体重。