Based on the latter and before using the BDCA2-DTR mouse model in long-time atherosclerosis studies, we first evaluated the effect of 4 weeks pDC depletion on atherogenesis to confirm previous studies applying a depletion antibody.[14, 19] Apoe-/- and Apoe-/-BDCA2-DTR mice were fed a HFD while injected with DT 3 times per week over 4 weeks. The gene discussed is APOE; the disease is atherosclerosis.