Characterization of autoimmune thyroiditis in MRL-lpr/lpr mice

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Autoimmunity

Background:

• MRL-lpr/lpr mice are a well-established model for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• SLE is a complex autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations.
• The potential for other organ-specific autoimmune manifestations in this model requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the development of autoimmune thyroiditis in MRL-lpr/lpr mice.
• To characterize the immunological and hormonal changes associated with thyroid dysfunction in this model.
• To establish MRL-lpr/lpr mice as a relevant model for studying autoimmune thyroid disease.

Main Methods:

• Histopathological examination of thyroid tissues from MRL-lpr/lpr mice and control MRL-+/+ mice.
• Measurement of serum free thyroxine (fT4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
• Quantification of circulating autoantibodies against thyroglobulin, thyroperoxidase, and double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs).

Main Results:

• MRL-lpr/lpr mice exhibited significant infiltration of immunocompetent cells in the thyroid gland, forming lymphoid follicles.
• All MRL-lpr/lpr mice presented with hypothyroidism, characterized by reduced fT4 and elevated TSH levels.
• High titers of IgG autoantibodies against thyroglobulin, thyroperoxidase, and dsDNA were detected in diseased mice.
• Age-matched MRL-+/+ mice showed minimal thyroid lymphocytic infiltration and normal thyroid hormone levels.

Conclusions:

• MRL-lpr/lpr mice spontaneously develop autoimmune thyroiditis alongside their lupus-like syndrome.
• The observed thyroid dysfunction and autoantibody production highlight the utility of this model for studying thyroid autoimmunity.
• This study establishes MRL-lpr/lpr mice as a valuable preclinical model for investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapies for autoimmune thyroid diseases.