Strain differences in conjunctival gene expression profiles

Gel-forming mucins secreted by conjunctival goblet cells have been implicated in the clearance of allergens, pathogens, and debris. Here, we found that B6J mouse conjunctival goblet cell mucins are Alcian blue-positive due to sialylation in the steady state. However, Balb/c mouse strain was found to have Alcian blue-negative goblet cells in the conjunctiva. To understand the mechanisms underlying this difference, we performed microarray analysis. Conjunctival tissue was collected from naïve female B6J and Balb/c mice. Total RNA samples from 3 mice were pooled for each strain.