Title:
Control of neuritogenic activity of PNS-specific T cells by antigen recognition and costimulation in transgenic mouse models.
Project management at the University of Würzburg:
Participating scientists:
Abstract:
Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is an animal model for the human Guillain-Barre Syndrome. The model was largely developed in the rat, where T cell infiltration, inflammation and termination of the response by T cell apoptosis have been demonstrated. For a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these different phases of EAN we plan to make use of the more advanced transgenic tools of the mouse system.
A PNS-specific expression vector for the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) has been constructed. These mice will be backcrossed with T cell receptor-transgenic mouse lines expressing MHC class I and class II-restricted OVA-specific antigen receptors (OTI and OTII). In parallel, the role of costimulatory signals (CD28/CTLA-4, IL-2) in the initiation and propagation of the inflammatory response will be investigated.
We expect new insights into the initiation, propagation and termination of organ-specific autoimmunity and an assessment of the feasibility to interfere with the disease at the levels of antigen recognition and costimulation. This project is part of the IZKF's efforts to contribute to a better understanding and management of autoimmune diseases.
Key words:
T cells
costimulation
EAN
transgenic mice
Projekt period: from 05.1999 to 04.2004
Funding institution:
Sondermittel Land Bayern ( IZKF Projekt C13 )
Bund
Publications: