Psoriasis-like Inflammation Induced in an Air-pouch Mouse Model

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Animal Models

Background:

• Psoriasis initiation involves T-helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation and skin infiltration, leading to interleukin 17A/17F (IL-17A/IL-17F) production.
• Existing psoriasis mouse models lack simplicity and rapid readouts.
• There is a need for an easily inducible mouse model for the IL-23/IL-17 pathway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple and rapidly inducible mouse model for studying the IL-23/IL-17 pathway in psoriasis.
• To enable quick readouts via lavaging and detectable cytokine levels.
• To investigate immune cell infiltration and cytokine secretion in a psoriasis-like inflammation model.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 6-day air-pouch mouse model.
• Administered a combination of anti-CD3, IL-23, and IL-1β.
• Measured intra-pouch secretion of IL-17A, IL-17F, and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 at 24, 48, and 72 hours.
• Analyzed skin biopsies for immune cell infiltration and isolated intra-pouch immune cells.

Main Results:

• The induction cocktail significantly increased intra-pouch IL-17A/IL-17F levels and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 production.
• Cytokines were detectable up to 72 hours post-induction.
• Observed T-cell activation and migration into the air pouch lining, with IL-17a mRNA expression.

Conclusions:

• The developed air-pouch mouse model effectively mirrors the IL-23/IL-17 axis of psoriasis-like inflammation.
• The model is characterized by significant immune cell infiltration and cytokine secretion.
• This model provides a straightforward and rapid method for studying psoriasis pathogenesis.