Amelioration of human lupus-like phenotypes in MRL/lpr mice by overexpression of interleukin 27 receptor α (WSX-1)
2008

IL-27 Receptor Overexpression Protects Mice from Autoimmune Diseases

Sample size: 60 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Sugiyama N, Nakashima H, Yoshimura T, Sadanaga A, Shimizu S, Masutani K, Igawa T, Akahoshi M, Miyake K, Takeda A, Yoshimura A, Hamano S, Yoshida H

Primary Institution: Kyushu University

Hypothesis

The study investigates the role of interleukin 27 receptor α (WSX-1) in the development of autoimmune disorders in MRL/lpr mice.

Conclusion

Overexpression of WSX-1 in MRL/lpr mice protects them from developing autoimmune diseases.

Supporting Evidence

  • TgH mice exhibited a prolonged lifespan and no apparent development of autoimmune nephritis.
  • Production of anti-dsDNA antibody and total IgG and IgG2a were significantly lower in TgH mice.
  • CD4+ splenic lymphocytes in TgH mice were more subject to IL27-mediated suppression of cytokine production.

Takeaway

Scientists made special mice that have more of a protein called WSX-1, and these mice got sick less often from autoimmune diseases.

Methodology

Two strains of WSX-1 transgenic mice were generated in the MRL/lpr background, and their effects on survival and autoimmune symptoms were studied.

Participant Demographics

Female MRL/lpr mice were used in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1136/ard.2007.077537

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