Our laboratory has developed a porcine cDNA microarray that we can use to analyze changes in gene expression in response to immune challenge in pigs.  Our studies have shown that the Chinese Meishan gilts respond very differently to an immune challenge than do the domestic white crossbred gilts.  The Meishans show few behavioral signs of sickness and very little increase in body temperature when compared to the white pigs.  However, both breeds show robust increases in cortisol and cytokines such as interleukins.  The goal of this project is to examine changes in gene expression in response to bacterial changes in the hypothalamus and uterus of the Chinese Meishan and white crossbred gilts.  We hope to identify specific genes that show differential expression between the two breeds.  We also hope to identify new, previously unknown genes that may play a role in the immune response in pigs.