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An In Vivo Estrogen Deficiency Mouse Model for Screening Exogenous Estrogen Treatments of Cardiovascular Dysfunction After Menopause
Published on: August 13, 2019
Effect of the anti-estrogen, Nafoxidine, on NZB/W autoimmune disease
Abstract:
Treatment of female NZB/W F1 mice with Nafoxidine, an anti-estrogen, led to delayed manifestation of autoimmune features. Such treated mice had reduced anti-DNA antibodies, reduced proteinuria, and improved survival. These results support the hypothesis that sex hormones play an important role in the expression of autoimmunity and suggest that estrogens may accelerate autoimmunity in NZB/W F1 mice.
Insights
Anti-estrogen treatment with Nafoxidine delayed autoimmune disease in female mice. This suggests sex hormones, particularly estrogens, accelerate autoimmune conditions like lupus in NZB/W F1 mice.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Sex hormones, particularly estrogens, are implicated in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases.
- NZB/W F1 mice are a well-established model for studying lupus erythematosus, exhibiting a high incidence of autoimmune manifestations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of estrogens in accelerating autoimmunity in female NZB/W F1 mice.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of anti-estrogen treatment in mitigating autoimmune disease progression.
Main Methods:
- Female NZB/W F1 mice were treated with Nafoxidine, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM).
- Assessment of autoimmune features included monitoring anti-DNA antibodies, proteinuria, and overall survival rates.
Main Results:
- Nafoxidine treatment significantly delayed the onset of autoimmune manifestations in the mice.
- Treated mice exhibited reduced levels of anti-DNA antibodies and decreased proteinuria.
- Improved survival rates were observed in the Nafoxidine-treated group compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Estrogens play a crucial role in accelerating the expression of autoimmunity in NZB/W F1 mice.
- Anti-estrogen therapy, exemplified by Nafoxidine, demonstrates potential as a therapeutic strategy for autoimmune diseases.
- These findings underscore the significance of hormonal modulation in managing autoimmune conditions.
