RT-PCR method for detecting the expression of transforming growth factor-β_1 gene in lung tissues of silica-treated mice

Objective To investigate the gene expression of transforming growth factor-β_1 (TGF-β_1 ) in lung tissues of silica-treated mice. Methods The experimental mice were divided into control and silica group. 0.2 g/kg body weight of silica was injected intratracheally in silica group.Samples of lung tissue were collected 1,3,5,7,14 and 28 d after injection.RT-PCR method was used to analyze the gene expression of TGF-β_1 in lung tissue of silica-treated mice. Results The expression of TGF-β_1 gene in lung tissue elevated from the 3rd day(1.20±0.15) and the peak value was on the 7th day(1.74±0.19).Then the expression decreased from the 14th to 28th day.But there was still higher than control until the 28th day. Conclusion TGF-β_1 may play an important role in silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis.