Sftpa1 (surfactant associated protein A1 or SP-A) encodes a lung surfactant protein belonging to the C-type lectin subfamily called collectins. SP-A is involved in surfactant homeostasis and in the defense against respiratory pathogens. SP-A binds the IAV (influenza A virus), neutralizing it and enhancing uptake by macrophages. SP-A knockout mice have exons 2 through 4 (including the translation start site) replaced by a neomycin cassette resulting in the absence of protein. Mice homozygous for the mutation are viable and fertile. Following infection with IAV (modified to bind SP-A, but not SP-D), homozygotes exhibit greater weight loss during infection, increased airway epithelial injury, increased numbers of alveolar cellular infiltrates and a lower mean lethal dose than controls.

SP-A knockout mice have exons 2- 4 of the Sftpa1 (surfactant associated protein A1 or SP-A) gene replaced by a neomycin cassette. Homozygous null mice have an increased susceptibility to IAV (influenza A virus) infection. This strain may be useful for studies of lung surfactant homeostasis and respiratory pathogens.

This strain is hosted by NIH's MMRRC, which partners with JAX for the distribution of this and other strains. For additional information and to purchase, please visit the MMRRC site.