Analysis of defective delayed-type hypersensitivity in autoimmune mice bearing lpr gene

Many functional defects of T-cells have been found in autoimmune prone, MRL/MpJ-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice. We examined the capacity of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) induction and macrophage migration inhibition factor (MIF) production. MRL/lpr and C57BL/6J-lpr/lpr (B6/lpr) mice were tested for capacity of DTH by the footpad reaction to purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD) and lung granuloma formation after immunization with BCG-cell wall (BCGCW). In lpr mice, the ability to induce DTH against exogeneous antigenic stimulation decreased with age. The results show that the defect of DTH in lpr mice caused by deficiency of the MIF producing capacity of proliferated T-cells rather than suppressor cell activity for MIF production.