Mgl2DTR mutant mice contain a cDNA encoding human diptheria toxin receptor (DTR; formal symbol HBEGF)-EGFP fusion protein in exon 2 of the macrophage galactose N-acetyl-galactosamine specific lectin 2 (Mgl2) gene, abolishing gene expression. MGL2, also known as CD301b, is a transmembrane protein expressed in dermal dendritic cells (DDCs). Following immunization with antigen, CD301b+ DDCs are involved in the differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells into T helper (Th)2 cells. Th2 cells play an important role in cell-mediated immunity against extracellular parasites, bacteria, allergens, and toxins by producing cytokines and regulating B cell class-switching. Homozygous Mgl2DTR mice are viable and fertile. GFP fluorescence is evident in CD301b+ DDCs. Injection of diptheria toxin (DT) specifically depletes CD301b+ DDCs resulting in decreased accumulation and expression of CD69 by polyclonal CD4+ T cells in the skin-draining lymph node. These mice also exhibit impaired Th2 cell development upon infection with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Mice receiving multiple injections of DT are viable, and CD301b+ DDCs depletion lasts 6 days after a single DT injection.

Mgl2DTR knockin mice are useful when studying the requirement for CD301b+ dermal dendritic cells in the generation of Th2 cell-mediated immunity.

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