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Published on: January 7, 2012
Experimental autoimmune prostatitis after neonatal thymectomy in the mouse
Abstract:
Experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) could be induced in (C3H/HeMs X 129/J)F1 mice by thymectomy (Tx) at 3 days (Tx-3) but not at 0 or 7 days after birth. Appearance of EAP was noticed in the three lobes of the prostate, most frequently and severely in the anterior lobe (coagulating gland). EAP thus induced was characterized by a loss of secretory products in the lumen, massive lymphocytic infiltration in the stroma, especially beneath the epithelial cells, and by the presence of circulating autoantibody(ies) against the epithelial cells of the prostate (APA). EAP started at puberty and its incidence was 68% in 50-150 day old mice. APA was completely absorbed with the homogenates of prostate but not of seminal vesicles, testes or livers of the mouse. High titres of APA, detectable in sera of more than 1,000-fold dilutions accompanized with the severe lesion, were assayed by indirect immunofluorescence (IFL) technique. No sign of EAP was seen in the immature prostate of 90 day old mice which were orchidectomized at 0 day (Orx-0) followed by Tx-3. Exogenous androgen treatment at an adult age induced EAP in these Orx-0 plus Tx-3 mice. The findings indicate that mice which received Tx at a critical neonatal age develop EAP by autosensitization to the antigen(s) normally expressing in the differentiated prostate.
Insights
Neonatal thymectomy (Tx) in mice at 3 days old can induce experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) by puberty. This condition involves prostate autoantibodies (APA) and lymphocytic infiltration, suggesting autosensitization.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Urology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) is a condition that can be induced in specific mouse models.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind EAP is crucial for autoimmune disease research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the induction of EAP in (C3H/HeMs X 129/J)F1 mice.
- To identify the critical developmental window for EAP induction via thymectomy (Tx).
- To characterize the immunological and histological features of EAP and associated autoantibodies.
Main Methods:
- Induction of EAP through neonatal thymectomy (Tx) at different ages (0, 3, or 7 days).
- Histological examination of prostate tissues to assess inflammation and secretory product loss.
- Detection and characterization of circulating autoantibodies against prostate epithelial cells (APA) using indirect immunofluorescence (IFL).
- Assessment of the role of androgens by orchidectomy (Orx) and subsequent androgen treatment.
Main Results:
- Tx at 3 days (Tx-3) induced EAP by puberty, characterized by lymphocytic infiltration and loss of secretory products, primarily in the anterior prostate lobe.
- Circulating autoantibodies against prostate epithelial cells (APA) were detected and specifically absorbed by prostate homogenates.
- EAP induction was dependent on neonatal thymectomy timing and androgen presence, as evidenced by lack of EAP in orchidectomized mice and its induction by androgen treatment.
Conclusions:
- Neonatal thymectomy at a critical window (day 3) can lead to autosensitization and the development of EAP in mice.
- The findings suggest that EAP development involves an autoimmune response to prostate-specific antigens, influenced by hormonal factors.
- This model provides insights into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases involving specific organ targets.
