Open AccessEffect of altered lymphocyte function on immunologic disorders in nzb/nzw mice
Author(s) -
Mehta Jagdish,
Knotts Linda L.,
Hahn Bevra H.
Publication year - 1977
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780200113
Subject(s) - antibody , immunology , nephritis , proteinuria , medicine , gamma globulin , antigen , lymphocyte , globulin , kidney
NZB/NZW F 1 female mice were treated with the immunosuppressive enzyme L‐asparaginase (Asnase) for up to 32 weeks. Asnase diminished circulating anti‐DNA and antinuclear antibodies, diminished deposition of γ‐globulins in kidneys, significantly delayed the onset of proteinuria, and reduced deaths from nephritis. These effects were associated with reduction of cellular IgM antibody synthesis to both T‐dependent and T‐independent antigens, but the graft‐versus‐host reaction was not affected. After several weeks of therapy, antibodies against Asnase appeared in the circulation, the effect on antibody synthesis was lost, ANA and anti‐DNA appeared, followed by proteinuria and deaths from nephritis. Therefore Asnase proved to be an effective therapy in NZB/NZW mice, but its usefulness was limited by the appearance of inactivating antibodies.