Pancreatic autoimmunity induction with insulin B:9-23 peptide and viral mimics in the NZB mouse

To create a new experimental model of diabetes, we used the New Zealand Black (NZB) mouse as a potential model. NZB mice were immunized with B:9-23 insulin peptide in IFA and the viral mimic, poly(A:U). No diabetes was observed but blood glucose was significantly higher in the B:9-23 peptide group compared to controls. Insulin autoantibodies (IAA) were only induced in groups given the B:9-23 peptide. B:9-23 alone induced peri-insulitis. We demonstrate insulin autoimmunity in the NZB mouse using the insulin peptide B:9-23 and viral mimics. The reason for the protection from diabetes despite the presence of autoimmunity is currently not established.