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Ocular inflammation in MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr mice
1Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Systemic autoimmune disease in MRL/lpr mice caused ocular inflammation, primarily in the sclera and choroid. This T cell-mediated process may model human systemic necrotizing vasculitis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- MRL/lpr mice spontaneously develop systemic autoimmune disease.
- This disease involves vasculitis, lymphadenopathy, glomerulonephritis, and autoantibodies.
- Ocular inflammatory infiltrates are observed in MRL/lpr mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize ocular lesions in MRL/lpr mice.
- To investigate the cellular basis of ocular inflammation in this model.
- To assess the potential of MRL/lpr mice as a model for ocular vasculitis.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of 104 MRL/lpr mice.
- Immunohistologic analysis of ocular infiltrates.
- Comparison with congenic MRL/Mp-+/+ and BALB/c mice.
Main Results:
- Scleral lesions were found in 30% of older mice, often near small arteries.
- Choroidal inflammation occurred in 16% of mice.
- Ocular infiltrates were predominantly CD4+ helper T cells, indicating a T cell-mediated process.
Conclusions:
- Ocular lesions, particularly scleral vasculitis, are a significant feature of MRL/lpr mice.
- The T cell-driven inflammation suggests a potential model for ocular manifestations of systemic necrotizing vasculitis in humans.