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Induction of experimental thyroiditis in mice by recombinant interferon gamma administration
Y Kawakami1, N Kuzuya, T Watanabe
1Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tsukuba University, Japan.
Acta Endocrinologica
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Interferon gamma induced major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class 2 expression in mouse thyroids, leading to anti-thyroid antibodies and suggesting a role in autoimmune thyroid disease initiation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
Background:
- Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class 2 expression on thyroid follicular cells is implicated in human autoimmune thyroid diseases.
- Interferon gamma is known to induce MHC class 2 expression on cultured thyrocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate thyroidal changes in vivo following interferon gamma administration and induced MHC class 2 expression.
- To establish a mouse model for studying autoimmune thyroid disease pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Recombinant interferon gamma was administered daily to mice.
- MHC class 2 molecule expression was assessed using indirect immunohistochemistry.
- Thyroidal changes, antibody production, and lymphocyte infiltration were evaluated.
Main Results:
- MHC class 2 molecules were expressed on thyroid follicular cells within 2-4 days of interferon gamma administration.
- Decreased serum T4 and T3 concentrations were observed.
- Anti-thyroglobulin and anti-microsomal antibodies were detected, with mild lymphocyte infiltration in thyroid glands after 28 days.
Conclusions:
- MHC class 2 expression on thyroid follicular cells induces anti-thyroid antibodies, playing a key role in initiating autoimmune thyroiditis.
- Further factors may be required for the progression of thyroiditis.
- This mouse model offers a valuable tool for elucidating the pathogenesis of human autoimmune thyroid diseases.