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Induction of Drug-Induced, Autoimmune Hepatitis in BALB/c Mice for the Study of Its Pathogenic Mechanisms
Published on: May 29, 2020
An infectious hepatitis of undetermined origin in mice. I. Description of the disease
Abstract:
Serial intraperitoneal passage in mice of a saline extract of the pooled livers, spleens, and kidneys of such animals has led to the demonstration after three or more passages of a transmissible agent causing hepatitis. The mice developed an illness after 3 to 4 weeks characterized by hepatosplenomegaly, and serous ascites. Spontaneous diuresis and recovery usually occurred during the subsequent 2 to 4 weeks. Histological studies of the livers showed diffuse mononuclear infiltrations, focal accumulations of mononuclear cells, perivascular mononuclear cuffing, dilated sinusoids, and occasionally focal areas of necrosis. Mice which have recovered from the disease showed no noteworthy resistance to it, and their sera failed to protect against the infectious agent. Attempts to infect rabbits, guinea pigs, monkeys, and embryonated hens' eggs yielded negative results, but young hamsters developed the disease in mild form.
Insights
Researchers identified a transmissible agent causing hepatitis in mice after serial passage. This agent induced liver and spleen enlargement, fluid accumulation, and liver inflammation, with young hamsters showing mild symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Hepatitis is a significant global health concern.
- Understanding the etiology of viral hepatitis is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for a transmissible agent causing hepatitis.
- To characterize the pathological effects of this agent in animal models.
Main Methods:
- Serial intraperitoneal passage of saline liver, spleen, and kidney extracts in mice.
- Clinical observation for signs of illness, including hepatosplenomegaly and ascites.
- Histopathological examination of liver tissues.
- Cross-infection studies in various animal models.
Main Results:
- A transmissible agent causing hepatitis was identified after three or more passages in mice.
- Affected mice exhibited hepatosplenomegaly, serous ascites, and liver inflammation (mononuclear infiltrations, dilated sinusoids, necrosis).
- Young hamsters developed a mild form of the disease, while rabbits, guinea pigs, monkeys, and embryonated eggs were not susceptible.
Conclusions:
- A novel infectious agent capable of causing hepatitis in mice has been demonstrated.
- The disease in mice is characterized by specific pathological liver changes.
- Further research is warranted to identify the nature of this transmissible agent and its potential implications.
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