Interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein peptide-induced uveitis in B10.RIII mice: Characterization of disease parameters and immunomodulation

Experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) can be induced in the B1O.RIII mice following immunization with bovine interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein (IRBP) and human IRBP161-180 peptide. This study examines the valu e of the human IRBP161-180 peptide model in the B1O.RIII mice. as a suitabl e model of EAU in order to examine immunotherapies, Having established a re liable and consistent immunization protocol of 25 mug peptide and no PTX, t he time course of histopathology was performed. which graded both cellular and structural scores individually. Disease was typically of an acute natur e. characterized by rapid onset of a massive inflammatory response. resulti ng in extensive damage to the rod outer segments (ROS) and neuronal layers. Treatment with potent immuno suppressive agents. CD4-specific monoclonal a ntibodies resulted in the inhibition of disease and a reduction in disease incidence. Treatment with p55-tumor necrosis factor receptor-Ig (p55-TNFR-I g) fusion protein reduced structural damage to the retina despite a high le vel of cellular infiltration in the eye, suggesting that target organ damag e in an acute model of EAU can be modulated. (C) 2001 Academic Press.