Effects of DNase I on Autoantibodies in Lupus Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Manderson Anthony P, Carlucci Francesco, Lachmann Peter J, Lazarus Robert A, Festenstein Richard J, Cook H Terence, Walport Mark J, Botto Marina
Primary Institution: Imperial College, London
Hypothesis
Can the over-expression of DNase I in mice reduce the development of autoantibodies associated with systemic lupus erythematosus?
Conclusion
The study found that the mutant DNase I provided some protection against the development of certain autoantibodies but did not prevent renal disease.
Supporting Evidence
- The ash.DNase I mutant provided significant protection from the development of anti-ssDNA and anti-histone antibodies.
- Transgenic mice showed lower levels of circulating DNA after LPS treatment.
- Autoantibody levels were significantly lower in ash.DNase I.Apcs-/- mice compared to controls.
Takeaway
Scientists tested a special protein in mice to see if it could help stop a disease that makes the body attack itself, and it worked a little bit but not enough to stop kidney problems.
Methodology
Transgenic mice expressing wild-type or mutant DNase I were evaluated for autoantibody levels and kidney disease.
Limitations
The study did not observe significant protection against renal disease despite reduced autoantibody levels.
Participant Demographics
Female mice of C57BL/6 and Apcs-/- strains were used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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