| mice that lack the Merk signaling tyrosine kinase domain exhibit edema, leukocyte infiltration, and signs of endotoxic shock then die of endotoxic shock | |
viral gene transfer of Mertk to a RCS rat retina can correct both functional cellular defect (phagocytosis) and photoreceptor degeneration |
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mutation of the Mertk in Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat leads to retinal degeneration in which the RPE fails to phagocytose shed outer segments |
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mer(kd) mice with a cytoplasmic truncation of Mer have macrophages deficient in the clearance of apoptotic thymocytes |
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mice with disruption of Mertk gene manifest a retinal dystrophy phenotype similar to RCS rats |
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MerTK-deficient mice develop retinal degeneration due to defective RPE phagocytosis, whereas ablation of Axl or Tyro3 appears to have minimal impact on retinal homeostasis |