In another in vivo study using MRL/lpr mice, higher-dose imatinib treatment starting from Week 16 (advanced stage of GN) to Week 24 significantly reduced serum IgG and anti-dsDNA levels, ameliorated histological changes, reduced expression of PDGFR and transforming growth factor-β messenger RNA, reduced proteinuria, preserved renal function and prolonged survival [61]. This evidence concerns the gene PDGFRB and ganglioneuroma.