INDUCTION OF EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGIC ARTHRITIS WITH OUTER SURFACE-PROTEINS OF BORRELIA-BURGDORFERI

Objective. The arthritogenic potential of the cationic outer surface p roteins (Osp) from Borrelia burgdorferi was tested in rats. Methods. W ater-soluble Osps were prepared by butanol extraction and were adminis tered by intraarticular injection. Tissue injury was assessed by scint igraphy and histology. Results. A mild arthritis was seen in naive rat s. Preimmunized animals had more severe, longer lasting bouts of infla mmation. Conclusion. The Osps of Borrelia burgdorferi are potent arthr itogens in rats. These inmunodominant antigens may play a role in the development of Lyme arthritis in humans.